The Ultimate in Forgiveness

One of the greatest epics of all times is the Ramayana, which depicts the story of Sri Rama who is considered as an incarnation of the Almighty. He was born as one of the sons of King Dasaratha. He lived the life of an ordinary human being, a role model to entire humanity. He moved like an angel in human form sweetly combining moral excellence with the noblest qualities of head and heart. He was the repository of an ocean of values. Every act of his reflected an exalted principle and logic. To understand this we take one example of his trait-forgiveness.

King Dasaratha had given two boons to Kaikeyi, for her invaluable help during a war, which saved his life. The King loved Kaikeyi, the youngest of his consorts. When the King announced the coronation of Sri Rama naming him as his successor, the entire country was in a jubilant mood and full of celebrations.

The King tried his best to dissuade Kaikeyi from enforcing the boons. He was heart broken. Sri Rama came to know this. He took the intent of the boon cheerfully. There was no expression of sadness in his face. He realized his father's predicament and said it was his duty to honor the word given by his father. He volunteered to go the forest.

Sri Rama left for the forest. A heart brokern Dasaratha died. After fulfilling several missions of destroying perpetrators of evil Sri Rama fought against Ravana and killed him. He was victorious. All the gods and his father Dasaratha from heaven showered blessings on Sri Ram. Then Dasaratha asked him for a boon.
The great Sri Rama said.
"Father, do not have any grudge against Kaikeyi.She is my mother. Forgive her. That is the only boon I need from you".
Dasaratha was touched by the large heartedness of his son and he readily agreed. The triumphant Sri Rama returned to Ayodhya .The first act he did was to visit Kaikeyi, prostrate before her and seek her blessings. Only after obtaining her blessings he went to his mother.