High in the reaches of Mount Kailasha is the abode of Shiva. Once Lord Vishnu came to see Shiva. He left behind Garuda at the entrance.
Lord Vishnu told Garuda to wait outside Till he come back. Garuda Sat on A stone and started Waiting for his beloved Lord Vishnu.
Garuda happened to see a small bird on a tree. It was very tired and sick. He saw Lord Yama coming on running, as usual late for the meeting. He just acknowledged the presence of Garuda, did not talk much, as he was running out of time. Mr. Yama also happened to see the bird on the tree, as there was only one tree over the entire area, without leaves and dilapidated. He said ” This bird is still here !! How is that possible ? Its death is going to come soon.” Saying this , he went inside .
Garuda suddenly became Active and thought ” What does Yama think about himself ? Is he the only person who has powers to take away life ? I don’t want him to show his powers on this little creature ! I will save it from Yama“
He took the bird and began flying. Garuda crossed 7 oceans and 7 mountains. They finally reached a forest called Madrumasha. Garuda placed the bird on the tree. He made sure that the bird was safe and sound. He felt very proud of himself and flew back .
He saw Yama coming out of Kailash. He stopped Yama and asked ” Why were you so concerned about the bird being in Kailash ?” To this Yama replied ” Actually the bird’s fate was to die in a forest called Madrumasha. The bird had to cross 7 oceans and 7 mountains. It was too weak for that venture. That was why I was surprised “
Garuda was shell-shocked, as if a thunder bolt had fallen on him. He stood there numb!!!!
“You cannot change your fate nor other’s. It is already decided“, he thought.
Also read story in which Lord Vishnu is telling Narada about true devotion: