Thimmi was a fisherman. He lived with his parents in a small village by the seaside. He worked hard everyday to make ends meet. He hoped that someday he would catch a big fish or find a treasure that would make him rich.

One day when Thimmi was preparing his boats for departure he saw a stranger enter their village. It is unusual for people in this village to have visitors. Soon the young and old alike began to gather around the newcomer. Several voices greeted the visitor. Thimmi was not interested in these events and was minding his own business. As soon as the stranger began to speak, the crowd began to grow quiet. More and more people began to gather around him. Curious to know what was happening Thimmi also joined the crowd.

“I can look at the future. I can look at your future.” said the stranger. Thimmi and others were paying full attention now.

“My mystic powers have made ordinary workers become rich merchants. Some have even become lords. My visions have brought me to this village. It tells me there are a few folks here who are destined for greatness. My duty is to reveal it to them.” said the stranger.
An elderly woman standing by Thimmi’s side was displeased with all that the visitor was saying.

“I had seen the likes of him before. He is just another fortune teller. Don’t waste your breath on him.” said the elderly woman.
Nobody in the crowd acknowledged her words.

The fortune teller began to speak more about this mystic skill. Thimmi stopped paying attention. A voice inside him kept repeating to him “Listen to this man. You are destined for greatness. He is going to turn you into a rich merchant.” Thimmi surrendered to that voice.

“I want to know my future. Can you tell me?” Thimmi shouted.

The fortune teller was not bothered by the interruption. He gestured to Thimmi to come closer. He placed his hands on Thimmi’s head and looked towards the sky with closed eyes.

“I see you living in a big house. Several people attend to our needs. You are a kind and just man. You take good care of all of them.” said the fortune teller.

“But how?” asked Thimmi. “I cannot even afford to buy finer nets for my boat. How will I buy a big house?”

“In due time. In due time. One day, soon, you are going to make a big catch and that will make you rich beyond your dreams.” replied the fortune teller.

“When is that day? Tell me.” begged Thimmi.

“You shouldn’t make haste. I will tell you when you should know it.” replied the fortune teller.

“Can you tell me if I will have a good catch today?” asked Thimmi.

The fortune teller took Thimmi’s hands. He traced an alphabet in his hand.

“Remember this alphabet. This alphabet is your magic spell. You have to repeat it a hundred times in your heart before you cast your net. If you do that you will have a...