In that moment of struggle, a radiant being appeared. Not a god of any form, but a presence woven of stillness and compassion.
"Who are you?" Arun asked.
The figure's voice was like his own conscience speaking: "I am no other than your higher Self, the witness within you. Some call me guide, some call me Atman."
Arun bowed instinctively. "Tell me, what is my destiny?"
The guide replied: "You are bound neither by heaven nor hell, but by your own choices. You will travel as your mind is. If you are restless, you return. If you are pure, you rise. If you realize truth, you are free."
Arun wept. "Then I am not ready. My heart is still tied to my family."
The guide's eyes were like endless skies. "Then you must journey further. The wheel of samsara turns until wisdom awakens."