Valmiki and Hanman

*When Valmiki completed his Ramayana, Narada said 'It's good, but Hanuman's is better'.*

Valmiki didn't like that and wondered whose Ramayana was better. He found Hanuman's Ramayana inscribed on seven broad leaves of a banana tree. He read it and found it to be perfect. The most exquisite choice of grammar and vocabulary, metre and melody. He couldn't help himself. He started to cry. 'Is it so bad?' asked Hanuman 'No, it is so good', said Valmiki 'Then why are you crying?' asked Hanuman. 'Because after reading your Ramayana no one will read mine,' replied Valmiki.

Hearing this Hanuman tore up the banana leaves stating “Now no one will ever read Hanuman's Ramayana” “But why?” asked Valmiki. Hanuman said, 'You need your Ramayana more than I need mine. You wrote your Ramayana so that the world remembers Valmiki; I wrote my Ramayana so that I remember Ram.'

At that moment Valmiki realized how he had been consumed by the desire for validation through his work. He had not used the work to liberate himself from the fear of invalidation. His Ramayana was a product of ambition; but Hanuman's Ramayana was a product of devotion. That's why Hanuman's Ramayana sounded so much better.

There are people like Hanuman who don't want to be famous. They just do their jobs and fulfill their purpose. 

*There are many unsung "Hanumans" too...in our life...our spouses, parents, friends and colleagues....let's remember them and be grateful to all.....*