Strength That Waits Unseen

Strength does not vanish when it is hidden; sometimes it waits, protected, for the right time.

After twelve years in the forest, the Pandavas had to spend a thirteenth year in disguise, unrecognised by anyone. Before entering the kingdom of Virata, they wrapped their weapons, including Arjuna's great bow Gandiva, in cloth and hid them high in a shami tree on the edge of a burial ground, where people would be too afraid to look. For a year, these warriors lived in humble roles: Yudhishthira as a courtier, Bhima as a cook, Arjuna as a dance teacher, Draupadi as a maid. No one guessed who they were.

When the Kauravas attacked Virata's cattle, the moment arrived. Arjuna took down the weapons, worshipped them, and defeated the Kaurava army. Tradition links this day to Vijayadashami, and the shami tree is still worshipped for it.

Many of us pass through our own hidden years: a period of caregiving, a job below our ability, a long wait for an opportunity. It is easy to believe that our abilities have faded. They have not. They have been wrapped and kept safe, and what matters is whether we continue to look after them while we wait.

This Navaratri, pick one skill or ambition you have set aside, and give it a small, regular share of your attention, so that it is ready when its time comes.