The Blessing of the Banana Tree Goddess

**Once upon a time, there was a young girl who cared for a banana tree with devotion, watering it every day. One day, as she tended to the tree, she heard a gentle voice asking, “Will you play with me?” Startled, the girl ran to her mother, sharing her fear. Her mother comforted her, saying, “Do not be afraid, my dear. The voice you heard belongs to the banana tree goddess, Laxmi. She is pleased with you.”**

The next day, the girl returned to the tree, and true to her mother’s words, the goddess Laxmi appeared and played joyfully with her. As their playtime ended, Laxmi invited the girl, saying, “I live in this tree. Will you come to my house for lunch?” The girl agreed, and Laxmi led her to a magnificent palace. There, she offered the girl a delicious meal, served in vessels made of pure gold.

When the girl returned home, she excitedly shared the wondrous events with her mother. Laxmi had invited them to her house for lunch the next day. The girl’s mother, however, hesitated, saying, “But our home is so humble, and our utensils are so old. How can we host a goddess?”

Encouraging her daughter’s joy, the mother said, “Laxmi would be happy to see us welcome her with love and kindness.” They invited Laxmi with an open heart, and the goddess accepted their hospitality with grace. To their amazement, as soon as Laxmi entered their home, their simple utensils transformed into shining gold, and the house filled with prosperity.

Before departing, Laxmi blessed the family, promising that her blessings would remain as long as they continued to care for the banana tree. With that, she returned to her tree, leaving the family forever grateful and prosperous. The little girl faithfully watered the banana tree every day, and they all lived in happiness.

**Moral of the Story:** True devotion and kindness bring blessings beyond material wealth. A heart filled with love and respect attracts divine grace.