It was like a regular day when I
was discussing with my Dad on random topics. Suddenly the topic of savings and
investment popped up. Being from middle class family, it is in our blood to be
calculative on each step we take. My dad suggested putting money in PPF, so
that we will get it back after 15th year. Hold on, I will not bore
you with investment tips here, so you can keep on studying ahead. I confronted my
dad telling, how the amount will be of much value after 15 years. My finance
brain was trying to calculate the Time value of money. Then Dad gave me the
perfect example.
It was his young days when he was
trying to study ITI. Please note it’s not IIT. Although, the fee was mere Rs.
15/- for the whole year, he was struggling to arrange that. Days passed as he
was trying his best and could manage to arrange Rs. 13/- only. Finally one
generous person helped him with balance Rs. 2/-. With the fees in hand, he
rushed to the ITI the next day only to find that the date is already over.
After countless requests, he was not entertained by the Administrative Department.
He returned empty handed just to realize the harsh truth that he lost one year
due to mere two rupees. The situation taught the value of two rupees. It’s not
the amount which matters; it’s the situation which decides the value of things.
So never underestimate anything in life.
A small example he quoted me on
that day. You are going to buy a pen which costs Rs. 10/-. Now you have the
money, still we negotiate to find a better price because we don’t see value of
Rs. 10/- in that pen. However, just imagine it’s the day of your examination
and you have forgotten the pen. You are going to the same place and the same
person quoted the price of Rs. 50/- for that pen. You are not in a position to negotiate;
rather you see much more value in that pen.
A great lesson taught with a
small example by my Dad. Value each small thing, each person in life. You never
know the importance till the time and fate puts us in the situation to realize
the value. Nothing is small and valueless. Embrace everything with open mind
and open heart.
