When times are tough, the virtues of mankind need to be strong. However, in times of darkness, the virtues of mankind are the beacons of light especially compassion towards others is what makes one human. This was affirmed by Shri Ram in a beautiful way wherein although he was in adversities, he had the heart to be compassionate to the problems and thoughts of others and did what was best to make them happy.
It is easier to remember the faults of a person but difficult to forgive. But for Shri Ram it was always the opposite where he never held a grudge against people who made him go through miserable hardships. Manthara was a mere maid in the palace of Ayodhya, and Shri Ram had all the authority to punish her for the conditions she instigated to Queen Kaikeyi. But Shri Ram treats her as the woman who took care of them in their childhood. Right from Maharaj Dasarath, all rebuke Kaikeyi for her deeds, but Shri Ram never complains and has the same love and respect for her all. Not only himself, but Shri Ram convinces his brothers too in giving the same respect to Queen Kaikeyi.
Compassion begets the affection a simple tribal woman like Shabari and Shri Ram goes visiting her. Although worried about his beloved Sita’s whereabouts, yet he goes to meet Mata Shabari who was waiting for him since a long time. He regards her hospitality as the same affection of memories of eating food served by his mother Kaushalya. His kind words bring immense happiness to Shabari. Shri Ram proves that compassion sees no caste, creed, high or low and anybody is worth it.
While few Vanar warriors laugh at a little squirrel who was trying to help Shri Ram in his mission of Ram Setu, Shri Ram understands its fervour and devotion and accepts its tiniest help with a huge heart. Looking at the efforts of the little squirrel, Shri Ram strokes it fondly and his fingers make a mark on its body which remained as the greatest gift of love of Shri Ram even till date. Acknowledging even a small help and effort is the greatest quality of compassion.
While the preparations of the battle are going on, the spies Shuk and Saran come spying on the battle strategies of Shri Ram’s army, but are caught by Vibhishan. When they are taken to Shri Ram, instead of punishing them, he releases them and tells them to look around completely if they haven’t yet seen all his army strength. He mentions to the spies that he is not an enemy of any mankind or living creature, but only opposes injustice and evil. The spies are overwhelmed by this gesture of compassion of Shri Ram and remain ever thankful to him. After he emerges victorious in the battle, he respects his warrior skills of Ravan and asks Vibhishan to perform his final rites in a manner befitting a great king, thus showing no hatred towards him.
Shri Ram with all his gestures reminds the simplest , yet important lesson of life is that no matter one does not share happiness, but being there for others and understanding others during difficult times is what makes a compassionate human and that person is remembered by one and all in all times as an inspiration of humanity.