________________
The Value of Resolution
Bhaavadeva and Bhavadeva were two brothers. Their mother, Revati, was a deeply religious lady who was very firm in her observance of daily rituals. The religious nature of the mother left an indelible impression on Bhavadeva. He also became religious and condemnatory of sin.
During adolescence, his religious tendency augmented immensely. The increase in his detachment towards worldly things eventually resulted in his becoming a monk. His brother, Bhaavadeva, as a householder, continued to perform religious duties in his mother's company.
As Bhaavadeva came of age, he was wedded to a beautiful girl named Naagala. Bhaavadeva was returning home with his bride when he saw his elder brother giving a sermon in the forest. Realizing this as a chance to open his brother's eyes, muni Bhavadeva highlighted the transitoriness and shelterlessness of the world. The preachings took their toll of Bhaavadeva. Listening to them he desired to leave the carnal pleasures to enjoy the wholesome simplicity of the life of a monk.
However, Bhaavadeva's coin was two-sided, and he could not tell which side was up. He told his brother, "When I look at you, I want to join the assembly of monks and nuns; yet when I look at my wife, I want to fulfil my duty towards her.'
