The Moral Turmoil: Memories and Resolve
॥Hari Om॥ With trembling voice and sorrow-laden heart, Arjuna said to King Yudhishthira: "Just as life departs from the body when the vital force is gone, so too has my splendor and valor deserted me in the absence of Bhagvan Sri Krishna. Even the very earth recoils from me, estranged after His departure. Once, at Draupadi’s swayamvara, I triumphed as she placed the jayamala upon me, outshining mighty kings—Jarasandha, Duryodhana, Karna. Yet I know it was not my strength, but His grace that crowned me. Whatever glory I bore was but the reflection of my friend Sri Krishna’s blessings. Without Him, I am emptied, a bow without its string, a warrior bereft of his soul." Arjuna’s voice faltered as he recalled the Khandava Vana episode. "Brother, I remember the Khandava-daha, when Agni sought to consume the forest and Indra opposed him, sending torrents of rain to quench the flames. With Krishna at my side, I stood unyielding, my arrows forming a canopy again...
