A letter to mothers, from a mother.
A letter to mothers, from a mother.
Gargi Joshi lays out some answers to the challenges of raising healthy and safe kids in a confused modern world.
गुरुणामॆव सर्वेषां माता गुरूतरा स्मृता ।
Mother is the first and the most important among all teachers.
Dear Mothers,
As we step into motherhood, we are immediately enveloped by an unwavering concern for the safety, happiness, and future of our children. It becomes our life's mission to protect, nurture, and guide them. Yet, in today's world, ensuring their safety demands more than just love and care—it requires awareness, vigilance, and a profound understanding of the forces shaping their environment.
Why We Must Be Vigilant About Politics
Politics is not just about elections and governance; it shapes the fabric of our society, influencing the education our children receive, the food they consume, and even the beliefs they might be coaxed into adopting. We must be vigilant, for politics directly affects the safety and well-being of our children. Today, ideologies such as gender studies are being pushed in ways that can confuse children about even the most fundamental aspects of identity. This confusion can make them vulnerable to manipulative narratives, leaving them questioning their values, beliefs, and sense of self. The curriculum in schools often encourages children to move away from family and community values, promoting individualism and isolating them from the wisdom and strength found in their roots. It is essential that, as mothers, we demand from schools what we want our children to learn. We must monitor what they are reading and watching, understand who the creators of this content are, and recognize their value systems.
The Corporate Invasion of Our Homes
The influence of big corporations has seeped into every aspect of our lives. From the food we buy, often laced with GMOs, to vaccines that are pushed without adequate transparency, our children's health is directly impacted. We must educate ourselves about what goes into their bodies, ensuring that they are protected from harmful substances. Corporations seek to make consumers out of our children at an early age, encouraging them to chase materialistic ideals and shallow aspirations. Social media further amplifies this issue, with Bollywood and Western entertainment distorting our cultural values and pushing superficial ideals of beauty, success, and happiness. It’s heartbreaking to see young boys and girls seeking validation through frivolous means, measuring their worth by likes, followers, or material possessions.
The Importance of History and Heroes
History is not just a record of the past; it is a guide to the future. Our ancestors faced countless challenges and left behind valuable lessons on resilience, courage, and righteousness. By teaching our children about these heroes, we offer them role models who stand firm in the face of adversity. For instance, Kautilya’s Arthashastra provides practical wisdom on governance and life, but today, children are often taught distorted versions of history, praising failed rulers while ignoring true heroes. As mothers, we have the responsibility to ensure our children learn from the right sources, helping them develop a sense of pride and connection to their heritage.
The Need for Dharma and Rooting in Sanatana Dharma
Why do we learn Dharma? Because it is the compass that guides us toward righteousness, compassion, and truth. It provides our children with the tools to navigate an ever-changing world, to differentiate between right and wrong, and to stay rooted in their values. In an age where misinformation is rampant and the pressure to conform is overwhelming, grounding them in Sanatana Dharma ensures they have an unshakable foundation. It is why we must first learn and internalize Dharma.
Motherhood as the True Measure of Freedom
Society often tells us that true freedom lies in financial independence, climbing the corporate ladder, or achieving personal success. But in reality, these pursuits can often enslave us, making us subservient to corporate interests. As mothers, we possess a unique power—the power to shape the next generation. Our children learn not from our words but from our actions. They observe us, emulate us, and internalize the values we live by. By being the best version of ourselves, we inspire them to be the best version of themselves.
The Rise of Depression and Superficiality
Our children are growing up in a world where their worth is measured by superficial metrics—likes, followers, and material possessions. The depth and beauty of life can only be experienced by being closer to nature, living in harmony with our surroundings, and cultivating meaningful relationships. Depression is on the rise, fueled by constant comparison and unrealistic expectations set by social media and entertainment.
What Can We Do?
Stay Informed: Understand the political and corporate forces shaping our society. Be aware of what our children are reading, watching, and consuming.
Promote Family Values: Encourage open discussions about history, culture, and values. Share stories of heroes who have faced challenges with courage and integrity.
Demand Better Education: Actively participate in your child's education. Engage with schools, demand transparency, and ensure that the curriculum aligns with the values we want our children to uphold.
Live By Example: Our children learn more from observing us than from what we tell them. Let’s strive to be the role models they need, demonstrating resilience, compassion, and wisdom.
Conclusion
Dear mothers, we have the power to shape not just our children but the future of society. The choices we make today, the values we instil, and the actions we take will determine the world our children inherit. Let us rise to the challenge, be vigilant, and protect our children from forces that seek to undermine their potential. Let’s guide them with love, wisdom, and the strength drawn from our rich heritage.
With unwavering love and strength,
A Fellow Mother