Once upon a time, a sparrow laid her eggs on the shores of the vast ocean. But the ocean’s waves swept the eggs away in their ceaseless movement. Devastated, the sparrow pleaded with the ocean to return her precious eggs, but the ocean ignored her cries.
Undeterred, the sparrow resolved to dry up the ocean herself. With unwavering determination, she began to scoop out the water using her tiny beak. Many creatures laughed at her seemingly futile effort, dismissing it as a grand folly.
Word of the sparrow’s audacious attempt spread far and wide, eventually reaching Garuda, the majestic bird and the revered mount of Lord Vishnu. Moved by the sparrow’s resolve and bravery, Garuda descended to meet her. He was deeply impressed by her courage and commitment.
Garuda, with his great power, spoke to the ocean, “Return the sparrow’s eggs at once, or I shall take over her task.” The ocean, terrified of facing Garuda’s wrath, immediately relented and returned the eggs to the grateful sparrow.
Filled with joy and gratitude, the sparrow thanked Garuda for his intervention. Her determination had been rewarded, and the ocean learned a lesson in humility and respect, knowing that God helps those willing to help themselves.
Source-This is an extract from “Bhagavad Gita-As It Is” by Swami Prabhupada-Reference: Bhagavad-gita 6.24 Purport