One such story,which I like very much and somewhere I could relate to, is a small conversation between the teacher of Kauravas and Panadavas "Dronarcharya" and his son "Ashwathama".
Now as the story goes there was a sense of jealousy brewing in Ashwathama because of his fathers affection towards Arjuna.He was outraged at the fact that his father had promised Arjuna of becoming the best archer in the whole world.Wanting to seek answers he goes to his father and asks "I am your only son and your rightful heir,still you give preference to Arjuna over me,this ain't fair".
Drona said " Son I love you and will do so unconditionally,all that is mine is yours".
Ashwathama " Why not your wisdom and knowledge then,I just want that,but you go always sharing it with Arjuna,who I think is quite an mediocre archer"
Drona smiled and said "Don't compare yourself to Arjuna,you will only disappoint yourself,as far as wisdom and knowledge go,go ahead I am right here take it from me"
Ashwathama a little bewildered "But Father you can't just give your wisdom and knowledge to me,its not a a material thing,you have to teach me"
Drona "You do learn in my school along with the other boys,but you expect as my son to be exclusive to you,the truth is son that you have taken me for granted,you think that knowledge will come to you and knock on your door.
Ashwathamma protesting "Father that is not true,I attend all your classes,listen to everything you say and follow your instructions as well"
Drona " Yes,you do"
Ashwathama "Then why am I not Arjuna ? "
Drona "Because unlike you, Arjuna is not content with what I teach,you are always satisfied with what I teach you but Arjuna isn't. You have an ego that you are my son,Arjuna has surrendered his ego."
Ashwathama was crushed by his father's frankness he indeed quite knew in his heart the reason why his father loved Arjuna'
Drona concluded "Not every teacher gets a student like Arjuna, he is the 'Nara' (Man) who will one day reveal 'Narayana'(God) to us.
This story now has many interesting facets and complexities. Ashwathama feels that as he is the son of Drona he has the right to his knowledge as well.Arjuna is just plain curious and that is what impresses Drona.This trio of Son,Father and the Student is quite fascinating.
In our lives as well we need to introspect whether we ask our teachers or mentors the right questions like Arjuna or are we content like Ashwathama is.
