The Merchant's Son: A Tale of Adoption and Altruism🔊

Once upon a time, in a town deeply nestled amongst the mountains, lived a young merchant named Rasheed. With his coal-black hair and kindly eyes, he was admired not just for his looks, but also for his unwavering honesty. He was known for his fair trade dealings and generous nature, showing compassion to those less fortunate. However, he harboured a deep sorrow in his heart. Despite his wealth, he remained childless after many years of marriage. His wife, Amina, was similarly heartbroken, her dreams of motherhood shattered. Their story of childless sorrow was known throughout the town and beyond.

One day, a hermit from the outlying regions approached their home. He bore no material wealth, owning just his staff and robes. Yet, his eyes sparkled with knowledge and wisdom and his words resonated with profound sagacity. The couple received him with respect and offered what hospitality they could. The hermit, sensing their deep sorrow, offered them a proposition.

'You do not have a child of your own, but there many orphans in this town who yearn for parental love,' he suggested. 'Why not adopt one of them and give them the love and care you would your own?' Rasheed and Amina looked at each other, a spark of hope rekindling in their hearts.

The next day, they journeyed to the orphanage, their hearts filled with nervous excitement. They met the orphans, children ranging from infants to teenagers. Each looked at the wealthy couple with hopeful eyes. However, one child didn't. In the corner of the room sat a young boy, Adnan. Where others saw only his disability, Rasheed and Amina saw a child who was deserving of love and kindness. They decided to adopt Adnan. With the approval of the authorities, Adnan became their son.

Adnan adapted well to his new life. Rasheed and Amina ensured he faced no hardships, giving him the same love and care as they would a biological child. As he grew, Adnan developed virtues very similar to Rasheed’s. He treated others with kindness and respect and gained popularity due to his warm, welcoming personality. The family's happiness seemed to multiply with the addition of Adnan. However, destiny had different plans.

A few years after Adnan became part of their family, a severe illness took Amina from them. Rasheed and Adnan had to bear the pain of losing a wife and a loving mother. After her death, Rasheed and Adnan had only each other. The bond between them deepened throughout the years.

Adnan, now a young man, decided to follow in his father's footsteps and become a merchant. He was as fair and honest as Rasheed, which soon gained him a decent reputation in the community. He worked tirelessly, ensuring not just his and his father's comfort but also caring for the orphans and the less fortunate, never forgetting his past.

One day, while Adnan was on a trade venture, Rasheed fell severely ill. As Adnan returned, he was told of his father's sickness. He rushed to his bedside in a panic. With his final words, Rasheed expressed his love and pride for Adnan, assuring him that he had indeed become his son in every sense of the word. With that, Rasheed passed, leaving a devastated Adnan behind.

However, Adnan, strengthened by his father's words, continued to uphold the values instilled in him by Rasheed and Amina. His actions and dedication to helping the less fortunate engendered love and respect amongst his people. He ensured the orphans received education and support. His story became a legend, and to this day, he is remembered as the benevolent merchant who was adopted and yet became a beacon of hope for others.