Books are the best friend.

           Swami was young boy of fourteen, youngest among three brothers and sister. Being the smallest kid he was adored by the family. He was naughty but only till the extent that he didn't vex anyone. At least he had that kind of understanding, not to bother anyone too much. Much of his time was spent in talking, playing games on the internet and of course studies. 

          Though Swami was good at studies, but still he had not developed a penchant for it. He picked up books but didn't concentrate too much on it and switched over to the mobile phone to play games. This way he was losing focus on studies and didn't fare too well in the exams. He was admonished for it in the school as well as his home. He didn't feel quite well about this, and thought about Nathan- who stood first in the class. Nathan since was in the same class, was quite a good friend of his.   

          Very often they sat together and shared their experiences on the teacher's lectures in the class. Nathan was felicitated in the school as well as his home. Nathan looked elated as he was the class topper. Swami also had a coveted dream of standing first in the class some day. He also congratulated Nathan on his achievement and asked the secret of his success. Nathan, in a very submissive mood owed his success to the books. 

        Swami was amused at his reply and inquired further on the same. Later swami realized that Nathan had developed the liking for his curriculum. That Nathan was quite fond of books in the same that Swami was of Internet games. Later on when swami returned home, he sat and introspected. He came to the conclusion that if he wanted to fulfill the wishes of his as well his family members, he had to make develop a friendship with the books in the same way as Nathan had.

       Swami didn't feel well on being reprimanded for his carelessness in studies and vouched in himself to change things. Although he was relaxed by his family members and was only told to focus more on studies. But, he took a vow in himself- to be a rank holder this time. Now, he appeared quite sane and spent most of his time with the books of his curriculum. He played games but only in his spare time and after finishing his home work. 

      He started to focus more on revision as suggested by his elder sister. He started to go to sleep with the books while reading it on bed. The menage realized the sudden change that took place in Swami and were quite contented with this. This continued for the whole year, till the exams approached. The family expected quite well of him this time.

     Everyone's aspirations including Swami bore fruit. As the results were announced Swami exulted out of the sheer surprise. Swami had ranked first in the class, outshining everyone and Nathan stood second. He looked up and thanked god for his success and was congratulated by everyone. Even Nathan also acknowledged his caliber so did others. When came home in all colours he was surprised with a cake by his mother and sister. It was the plum cake, which he liked too much.

     The day went by in jubilation, and when swami went to bed in the night. He had only one thought tthat was hovering his mind and that was- 'Books are the best friend'.

Author                           Prityarth.