Sacrifice and reward

Published07 June 2019

Reading Time 2 mins

Author Stories of Nepal

Location Nepal

"I have been running this eatery for many years now. Before that, I was in India working for anyone who would give me daily wages. I was very careful with my savings. I never ate more than I needed. I never succumbed to my wants. When I finally returned home, people were arriving from higher up in the hills to settle on the sides of the Karnali Highway. There were only one or two eateries and I saw an opportunity. With the little money I had managed to bring back, I could open a tea shop and cater to the villagers, the drivers and their conductors and the passengers who would get off the bus to use the toilet or to stretch their legs. I made some benches, tables and in no time there was a tea kettle on the fire. I added noodles, biscuits, eggs and a few other items and business picked up. I was able to send all my children to school. Speaking of school, I only went to school for a month in my life because the fields demanded my sweat. Today, one of my sons topped the district level examinations and I could not be happier. I know of the sacrifices I have made for my children. All to bring them the comfort and happiness. Their happiness is my reward. And I know, from my children, I will never ask for anything in return."

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