SAVED BY GRACE
After three months one day, dad sat leisurely in front of the city hall talking with his friends and in the house things were as usual. Mom and Fathima were in the kitchen and boys were in another room. Dad came home and called for mom; she stood behind the door. Looking at the door he notified mom to get ready to go to Vadugapatti with children. She was not able to believe her own ears and doubted if it’s true. She asked when she was supposed to leave. Dad instructed her that bus to Madurai would come soon, she should be ready before it arrives and he would come later. He threw Rs 200 towards her and went back to city hall. Mom picked up money, went to the kitchen and at once children surrounded her.
Children queried...their dad is really asking them to go. Mom exclaimed, "I too can’t believe it. He gave us money to travel and this is a miracle of God...His name is wonderful". Omar stated sadly, "Mom we have lots of debts in Vadugapatti and this
Rs 200 won’t be enough. It will be just like a pinch of salt in the sea". Mom with faith affirmed, "Omar! God has opened a door which nobody can open and is asking us to leave; if we don’t go now this door will be closed and it won’t open again...we would be locked up her like slaves throughout our life. Don’t worry about money...God will see to it". Children agreed and they packed up their belongings. Their joy no knew bounds and they kept thanking God. One few more minutes then they’ll be free birds having new life...they’ll be worshipping God freely. Even though they were delighted about leaving on one side... sad on the other side as they had to leave Saleem and Ayub with their dad. Dad mentioned, "The last two boys can stay with me and study here". Mom was shocked and pleaded, "They are very young and can’t live separated from mom...so let them study in Vadugapatti". Dad angrily said, "All the other children are with you...isn’t that enough for you". Mom did not dare to talk afterwards. Saleem and Ayub stayed closely to mom crying as they’ll be leaving them soon. Mom comforted them saying not to weep and God will bring them all together one day and she’ll pray for them. When she saw those two little boys sobbing her sorrow increased. The packing was over; the time was running out and dad came inside the house after few minutes. When they brought their luggage at the doorstep, bus stopped in front of the house and mom hugged Saleem and Ayub, kissed and said bye to them. Mom also said bye to her husband; he didn’t respond. After they sat in the bus it started to move and they looked at them standing at the doorstep. Saleem and Ayub watched the bus tearfully as it disappeared from their sight around a corner. They wondered when they’ll meet again.