Diwali - Festival

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diwali#Dates

Next emerged none other than Goddess Lakshmi herself, the very embodiment of affluence and prosperity. Seeing her beauty par excellence, the hearts of all those present there (except Lord Vishnu) became agitated, kindling in all a desire to make her their own.

Indra fetched a seat for her with his own hands, Vishwakarma gave her many splendid ornaments and Lord Brahma a lotus. Thereafter Goddess Lakshmi, shining like a creeper of gold, holding a garland in her arms, set out in search of a suitable spouse, who was without blemish and would prove to be an eternal companion. She laid her eyes on all the three worlds critically scrutinizing all her suitors, saying to herself:

1). Some are high quality ascetics, but have no control over their anger (like sage Durvasa).

2). Though some are extremely knowledgeable, they are not above attachment (like Shukracharya).

3). Some are truly great but have not been able to win over kama (physical desire), like Lord Brahma.

4). Some are extremely prosperous (like Indra), but what use is such affluence when one has to depend on another for protection?

5). Some, though scrupulous in performing their dharma, lack compassion (like Parashurama).

6). Some are prone to sacrifice (like King Shibi), however mere sacrificial nature (tyaga) is not sufficient enough for mukti (final liberation).

7). For those free from attachment (like the eternal celibate brothers – Sanak etc.), they will have never have anything to do with the ‘other’, e.g. one’s wife etc, and therefore no relationship will be possible.

8). For those (like sage Markandeya) who have managed to gain a very long life (chir ayu), they do not possess the amiable nature preferred by women. For those who are amiable, they but possess a limited life span only.

9). The one who possesses both (longevity and amiability like Lord Shiva), lives inauspiciously.

10). Finally, the one who is totally auspicious, eternal and infinitely amiable, is indifferent to me (Lord Vishnu).