Importance of self-belief

5 Fingers Are Not the Same - A Story of Pursuing Dreams and Embracing Individual Talents

In the vibrant town of Jeeva Anand, Janu was known as the top student at "Jeeva Anand Govt. School." She had perfect grades and was admired by her teachers and peers. Everyone believed she was destined for greatness in academics. But her younger brother, Vahi, was a different kind of star. While Janu focused on her studies, Vahi shone in extracurricular activities. Whether it was singing, dancing, or competing in long jump, Vahi’s energy and passion lit up the room.

From 3rd grade to 10th, he earned numerous trophies and medals, but despite his achievements, his parents always focused on Janu’s academic excellence, pushing her toward perfection and showering her with praise. Vahi, though equally talented, often felt overlooked.

While Janu seemed to get everything she wanted — from the latest phone to the most fashionable clothes — Vahi was left feeling that his victories didn’t matter. Even though he felt the sting of being unnoticed, he never let it crush his spirit. He promised himself that one day, he would make his parents proud.

As the years went by, Vahi completed his 10th grade with a respectable score of 78%. His teacher, Rao Sir, celebrated his achievement and asked, "What’s next for you, Vahi?"

"I want to compete internationally, Sir. I’m determined to make it," Vahi replied, filled with hope.

Rao Sir smiled warmly. "And your studies? Have you considered the next steps?"

"I want to pursue commerce, but my father insists I follow the science stream," Vahi admitted, frustrated but still hopeful.

"Follow your heart, Vahi. Your education is important, but remember to stay true to what makes you happy. I believe in you," Rao Sir encouraged.

Later, at home, Vahi found his father scowling at piles of applications for the science stream. His heart sank. He longed to share his dream with his father, but instead, he felt the weight of expectation on his shoulders.

Faced with pressure, Vahi reluctantly chose Biology, a subject he despised. On his first day of college, he felt miserable. Studying something he didn’t love left him feeling trapped. To make things worse, he enrolled in the NCC (National Cadet Corps), hoping it would help with his dream of competing in the international long jump competition.

Months passed, and Vahi barely scraped through his first year with a 60% score. The rift between him and his father grew deeper, and they barely spoke. But through it all, Vahi clung to his dream of representing his country in the long jump.

The breakthrough came when Vahi qualified for the international long jump finals. He didn’t dare tell his father, so he shared the news with his mother. Before leaving, he met with his mentor, Venkata Sir, who had always believed in him.

“Sir, I’m going to the international competition. I’m going to make it!” Vahi said, his voice full of excitement.

Venkata Sir, with a reassuring smile, said, “Go for it, Vahi. I believe in you, and I know you can do it.”

With his mentor's words in his heart, Vahi set off for the competition. The atmosphere at the stadium was electric, and as the event progressed, Vahi found his focus. At 12:30 PM, he leapt higher than anyone had ever imagined, setting a new record. The crowd roared with excitement as Vahi stood tall in victory.

A representative from a prestigious athletics academy offered Vahi a scholarship, a stipend of 50,000 rupees per month, and full support for his career. This was the moment he had been dreaming of!

Vahi returned home a hero, greeted by cheers and applause. His mother embraced him with pride, and his sister handed him sweets to celebrate. But when he looked at his father, his heart sank. His father sat silently, without a word of praise. But then, something incredible happened. His father stood up, walked over to him, and hugged him tightly. Tears filled his father’s eyes as he whispered, “I’m so proud of you, my son. You’ve made us proud beyond words.”

In that moment, Vahi knew that all the struggles, doubts, and fears were worth it. His father's love and pride meant everything to him.

Moral of the Story: “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will spend its whole life believing that it is stupid.” Every person has their unique talents and strengths. Embrace your individuality, follow your passion, and never stop believing in yourself.