Honesty Wins the Race

Story

It was the school's annual sports day, and all the children gathered for a big race. The winner would get a medal, and his/her name would be displayed on the school’s wall of fame.

First, it was the boys' 800m race. The whistle blew, and everyone ran as fast as they could. Vivek ran with all his strength, while Raghav, wanting to win at any cost, pushed another child and took a shortcut.

Raghav reached the finish line first and raised his hands proudly. “I won!” he shouted. The teacher came forward with the prize.

But before she could hand it over, the other children spoke up, “Raghav cheated! He pushed me,” said one. “He didn’t run the whole way,” said another.

The teacher turned to Raghav, “Is this true?” Raghav lowered his head. He knew he had lied by action.

Then she looked at Vivek. He was tired, his knees were dusty, but he had run honestly without stopping.

The teacher smiled and said, “Children, remember what our scriptures teach: Satyameva Jayate, Nanritam, which means: Truth alone triumphs, not falsehood. A dishonest victory is no victory at all.”

She gave the medal to Vivek and patted Raghav kindly, “Winning is sweet, but only when it is earned with honesty. Falsehood may shine for a moment, but honesty shines forever.”

Raghav wiped his eyes and whispered, “I will never cheat again. From today, I choose to be honest.”

And all the children clapped, for they too learned that day that truth always wins in the end.