Editorial: Respect for Parents and Teachers is Paramount
Nowadays, children are increasingly experiencing ideological disorientation. In the name of Western culture, the younger generation is losing its original values. The decline of human values and sanskars in society is a matter of grave concern. To revive these declining moral values, Revered Guru Saint Dr MSG often gives teachings in the spiritual congregations that can help realize the vision of a prosperous society. Every individual should begin this process at home, as respecting one’s parents and teachers is not only a social responsibility but also a sacred duty.
Revered Guru Saint Dr Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Ji Insan, while addressing the students of MSG Gurukul’s educational institutions on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi (27 August), said that children should share their acquired knowledge with others, as sharing increases knowledge. They should avoid distractions and concentrate sincerely on their studies. One of the most famous incidents of Lord Ganesha’s life is when, instead of circumnavigating the entire world, He circumambulated His parents, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This teaches us that respect for parents and teachers is paramount.
Despite His immense knowledge and power, Lord Ganesha always remained humble. His life is a unique example of resilience in the face of adversity, as He never gave up. Similarly, students should draw inspiration from His character and ideals. Success in life should never lead to arrogance, while failure should not frighten them. With patience and hard work, they can reach their goals.
Every quality of Ganesha teaches us how to live life. He was always eager to learn something new, which is why He is considered the deity of learning and wisdom. Like Him, students should strive to keep learning continuously.
The Revered Guru Ji says that if children follow His teachings and implement them in their lives, they will not only succeed in studies but also in every sphere of life. Along with intelligence and knowledge, qualities such as hard work, humility, kindness, positivity, and respect for parents and teachers pave the path to success. To become a truly successful person, it is also necessary to respect family and society, because without this, the foundation of an ideal life cannot be laid. Only those who love their family and respect their parents and teachers are able to worship God and the Spiritual Master with complete concentration. Hindu scriptures also affirm that those who respect their parents receive the special blessings of God.
In this context, a popular folk tale is often recalled. It tells of a man in ancient times who became deeply distressed by family problems and decided to take up sanyasa (renunciation). He approached a Sadhu and said, “Guru Ji, accept me as your disciple. I want to renounce the world. Please help me. I want to leave behind my home, family, and work, and devote myself entirely to devotion.”
The Sadhu Baba asked him, “First, tell me, do you love anyone in your family?”
The man replied, “No, I do not love anyone in my family.”
The Sadhu continued, “Do you not have any affection for your parents, siblings, wife, or children?”
The man replied, “Guru Ji, the whole world is selfish. I have no love for anyone in my family. I have no attachment to anyone.”
On hearing this, the Sadhu Baba said, “Brother, please forgive me. I cannot make you my disciple, nor can I calm your restless mind.” The man was surprised. Baba explained, “Brother, learn first to live within a family. Do not run away from problems. Learn to face them together. If you learn to live with love and affection in your home, everything will be fine. Respect everyone at home. Treat everyone with love. This is the first lesson, and it will also lead you to God. Keep yourself content, and move forward by treating your family with respect.”
