Teachers’ Day – Celebrating The Wisdom Of Our Mentors And Guides
MATA, PITA, GURU, DEIVAM
India has traditionally revered the Guru – teacher, as one who dispels the darkness of ignorance by illuminating our path with his/her knowledge. It is believed that a spiritual guru is the conduit who guides us towards God eventually.
Teachers’ Day is celebrated in India on 5th. September every year since 1962, as a grateful tribute to all teachers. It is the birth anniversary of Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, the 2nd. President of India, who was an exceptional educationist, scholar, philosopher-statesman and author/translator of several books on philosophy and Hindu/Buddhist religion. Expressing our appreciation and respect for all the teachers who have impacted us in our educational journey is very important. Teachers are the backbone of society and in fact, we have all come across teachers who have gone out of their way to support and guide us when we needed it the most. Teachers’ Day is celebrated annually as a special event full of cultural activities, fun and excitement in most educational institutions.
Mother Is The First Guru-Teacher
It is said that Heaven is situated at the feet of the mother. From the time it is born, the emotional connect and bonding of the child with the mother is very special indeed. The unconditional love makes it the most selfless human relationship. Children learn what they live – that is, hear, see and experience. This early exposure to our mother’s and other elders, like adoring Dadiji and Naniji’s beliefs, convictions and behavior, have influenced and molded our character and personality subconsciously. Their simple folk tales, raja-rani stories with a moral message and family anecdotes have entranced us. Hearing our mothers and elders read and recite from our holy scriptures was our initial introduction to our religion. They also retold simplified versions of the stories from the scriptures, which really impacted us. Along with the celebrations of our colorful festivals, rituals and varied customs. Not to forget the sumptuous food, lovingly fed to us by our elders!
Most importantly, our mother and elders ingrained in us the traditional Indian value-system — our core everlasting values of respect, tolerance, compassion, humility and community service. The foundation for the moral, intellectual, cultural and spiritual growth of a person is laid in early childhood. The ability to differentiate between right and wrong and stand by the truth is taught not just in words but by example. To be selflessly devoted to family, disciplined yet loving. Above all, to be a good human being with strength of character, empathy and integrity.
This early childhood guidance at home, enables us to face life’s difficulties-the curved balls, with equanimity and faith. The values and discipline instilled in us at an early age, remain with us throughout our life.
Thoughts On Education – Importance Of The Teacher
I Touch The Future – I Teach
Education in today’s competitive, rapidly changing world, has acquired immense depth – encompassing vast and varied areas of knowledge.
The initial life-foundation laid by the mother and family of the child is further enhanced and carried forward by dedicated teachers in educational institutions. Children are the most valuable asset of a nation. Their correct, proper education- that is holistic all-round development of the child (not just learning by rote from the textbooks), is fundamental to the growth and development of our country. We need aware, responsible, civic-minded and patriotic citizens.
Plutarch said, “the mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled”.
A truly progressive teacher would be a mentor and facilitator; encouraging the students to have an enquiring mind and find answers for themselves – stepping in as a guide. Such a dedicated teacher would support a child in his/her inclination, talent and aptitude for a particular subject or activity. Resulting in happy, self-confident, motivated and eager-to-learn children. Great teachers motivate and uplift us, giving rise to spiritual strength.
Having imbibed the appropriate value-based education, we should all strive to become the medium for a Global flow of positive knowledge and intellectual discourse.
Let us also bow in reverence to the eternal wisdom and enlightened knowledge of ancient Hindu philosophy and spirituality. The timeless relevance and truths of the sacred Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas and other scriptures. As well as countless saints, sages and inspired classical writers like Kalidasa and Sri Aurobindo.
“Learning is an ornament in prosperity, a refuge in adversity and a provision in old age.” – Aristotle.
Learning for LIFE.
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