Choosing life over despair is never easy when challenges weigh us down. Yet, sometimes a simple encounter or a kind word can become a turning point. This story of Joseph, a passenger in an autorickshaw, the driver Ramesh, and a young man named Arun, reminds us that courage is not the absence of problems but the choice to live despite them.
A Ride That Changed Lives: Choosing Life Over Despair
The Unexpected Ride
Joseph sensed danger when the autorickshaw swayed recklessly, so he asked the driver, Ramesh, to slow down. But Ramesh, a man known for stubbornness, ignored him. The bumpy ride continued as vehicles sped past in the night, and a half-lorry honked behind, desperate to overtake. Ramesh, unwilling to give way, pressed forward with pride.
Finally, after a bend outside town, Ramesh stopped the vehicle. With an unusual politeness, he asked Joseph for a minute to buy something—liquor. When he returned, he brought along a frail young man named Arun, carrying a bottle as well.
The Sad Eyes of Arun
Arun, pale and quiet, carried sorrow deeper than words. Joseph greeted him with a smile, but the boy did not smile back. Instead, his head remained bowed in silence. As the conversation unfolded, Joseph discovered Arun’s painful truth:
- Arun’s parents were constantly fighting, leaving him emotionally abandoned.
- His father never showed affection, believing love would weaken authority.
- Lonely and unsupported, Arun’s only companion became his own sadness.
- A reckless accident had cost him his exam fees, and with no one to turn to, he chose death over facing failure.
Joseph’s Revelation
Stepping out of the rickshaw, Joseph leaned on his crutch, revealing his missing leg. He shared his own story—how, years ago, he too had come to the railway tracks, drunk and ready to end his life. Instead, he lost a leg but gained a new perspective.
“Victory and defeat are decided in the mind,” Joseph told Arun. “No one defeats us except ourselves. Once you realise that, half the battle is won.”
Arun broke down in tears, admitting, “I want to live, brother…I want to live.”
A Lesson for Ramesh
Joseph reminded Ramesh, the driver, that careless driving not only risks his life but also shatters the hearts of those waiting at home. Touched, Ramesh hurled his liquor bottle onto the tracks, declaring he would try sobriety for the sake of his son. Inspired, Arun threw away his bottle too, smiling for the first time that night.
For the first time, Ramesh gave way to another vehicle on the road, signalling with joy and receiving a smile of gratitude in return. That smile he passed on to Joseph, and Joseph passed it back. Ramesh sat taller, ready to face life without bowing his head.
The Message of the Story
This touching story is more than just a late-night ride. It reminds us of powerful truths:
- Life is precious, even when it feels unbearable.
- Family presence matters more than financial support.
- Small acts of kindness can redirect someone from despair.
- Courage is not about never falling—it is about choosing to rise again.
- Our choices ripple into others’ lives, sometimes in ways we never imagine.
Conclusion
Choosing life over despair is not a one-time decision but a daily commitment. Joseph’s compassion, Ramesh’s transformation, and Arun’s newfound courage teach us that hope can be rekindled even in the darkest hours. Sometimes, all it takes is one person who listens, one act of understanding, to turn someone away from the edge.
So, if life feels heavy, pause and remember—it takes more courage to live than to give up. And in choosing life, you may inspire others to do the same.
FAQs – Choosing Life Over Despair
1. What is the key message of this story?
The story emphasises that courage is found in choosing to live and face struggles instead of giving up in despair.
2. Why did Joseph’s missing leg matter in the story?
It symbolised resilience—despite his loss, Joseph proved that life could still be meaningful and victorious.
3. What role did Ramesh, the driver, play in the message?
Ramesh learned that his reckless habits affected not just himself but also his family, leading him to change for his son’s sake.
4. Why was Arun ready to die?
He felt abandoned, financially helpless, and emotionally unsupported, believing there was no way forward after his mistake.
5. How can this story inspire us today?
It shows that empathy, listening, and encouragement can change lives—and that even in pain, choosing life leads to strength and hope.
Thank you for taking the time to explore this post. I hope you found it both insightful and enjoyable.
Remember, your sharing can make a positive impact! Please share this post across your social media and other networks, allowing others to gain from its content.
PVM
Story credits – Elbin Vazhoor’s post
Mathukutty P. V. is the founder of Simply Life Tips, a blogger, content writer, influencer, and YouTuber passionate about learning and sharing. Guided by “Simple Living, Creative Thinking,” he believes in the power of knowledge sharing and lifelong learning.
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