On a rainy afternoon, I was walking along carrying parcels in both hands and contemplating this story of
Shri Krishna’s grace, when an item from one of the parcels dropped to the ground. I knew that if I kneeled to pick it up everything would fall and scatter, so I decided to leave it on the ground. As I stood there making this decision, a young man came by, scooped up the item, and returned it safely to me.
I was amazed. There was nobody around when the object fell. Where did this person come from?
I remembered grace!
I saw that in so many circumstances—big or small—grace is always present. Continuing to reflect on this, I realized that grace is neither big nor small. I felt it was erroneous to think, “a little grace, a lot of grace.”
Through this incident, I was given the understanding that grace gives what is needed, when needed. It is ever present in its totality.
New York, United States
This story reminds me that often we don't know how our prayers will be answered. As I read the story, I thought Krishna would fill the bowl up after hearing Draupadi's prayer and all would then be well. Instead, Krishna ate the one remaining grain of rice, and then caused Durvasa and guests to feel full and run away. That made me realize that we are often not aware of the outcome of our prayers but must have faith that they will still be answered.
Pennsylvania, United States
These words of Lord Krishna stood out for me: “When one’s duty is performed with love as an offering to God, even the smallest good deed has power to uplift many.” This is a beautiful reminder to me to pay attention to what I’m doing, to stay conscious, to offer whatever I do with love.
I feel inspired by Draupadi’s open, honest example. To me she seems so human in her concern for her family. But instead of letting that concern overwhelm her, she had the presence of mind to offer a heartfelt prayer in her time of need. I will remember her and this beautiful depiction of performing one’s duty with love—and the grace that flows from this.
Massachusetts, USA
What an auspicious reminder: when it seems as if I am facing an impossible situation, my devotion and prayer will lead me to a solution. I know grace is ever present. And even in those moments where I may falter, I need only pause—like Draupadi—and remember this truth.
This story has shown me that one grain of God's benevolent blessing multiplies in the bowl of the seeker who has faith and devotion.
London, United Kingdom
From this inspiring story of the
Akshaya Patra, I learn to trust God's abundance—one day at a time. I also observed that by serving others first, there is enough for all.
Washington, USA
This beautiful story reminds me that when I surrender to the Guru with complete faith, I experience that grace is always with me.
Indore, India