Our Parents are our first Teachers….. I think no one can deny this for sure. We are because of them and they are indeed our guiding force. In my life, I have always looked up to my Dad for advice. He was like a counselor who was just a call away and would lend his ear to my problems thereby surprising me with the best possible solution.
I would be dishonest,if I say that I adhered to all his saying. “No”………my ever evolving mind didn’t allow me to do that. It played its part well in accepting or rejecting the same,but there are five important sayings of my Dad, which I follow till date………
Just do what makes you happy…..
My class x board exams were over and I was kind of confused as to which stream to choose. Being a physics phobic, I had decided not to opt for Science in Grade XI but didn’t have the courage to confess before my Dad. I knew that my Dad had always wanted me to be an Engineer like him and all his dreams will die down with my one confession. But he could see it on my face and in a slight murmur said, ” just do, what makes you happy!”
That was music to my ears and I hugged him tight. I chose commerce over science and he encouraged me all through.
Fight for your rights……..
Being 80’s kid we had the privilege of traveling to School in Rickshaws. Our daily commute to school involved a thirty minute ride in these human pedaled vehicles. While these were designed keeping three passengers in mind, the quest to earn more pushed the rickshaw pullers to use one additional wooden plank called baby seat in the front thereby increasing the capacity from three to six. With everyone eyeing the passenger seat, our Rickshaw puller made a rule and asked us to take turns, such that all six of us got a fair chance to sit in this most loved area. Despite this rule, my seniors would never compromise and I would be the one at the receiving end. Regardless of my plea they won’t allow me to grab a place in the passenger seat. Once the matter came to the notice of my Dad,he said
“People won’t be nice always, you need to speak up and fight for your rights “
That gave me a tsunami of courage and I confronted my so called seniors,who hesitantly had to make place for me in the three wheeled hooded vehicle.
Don’t be scared of failures………
My Dad had got me a brand new bike when I was in middle school. The red vibrant bike was on my wish list since long and seeing it at my porch,transported me to a different world altogether. Everyday I would try ridding it but would fail badly. One fine day I tumbled and fell down post which I stopped trying it altogether. There my Dad stood smiling and said, ” No one has ever learned cycle in this world without falling. Keep trying and Don’t be scared of your failures”
Those words did wonders;With renewed spirit,I went to try my two-wheeled independence and came out victorious.
Don’t pay any heed to gossip mongers…….
Once I was upset and my Dad asked my Mom the reason behind my sad face. My Mom exclaimed,
” It seems Mama’s best friend has badmouthed about her in front of Music teacher”
” Who told you this? Were you present there??”
My Dad called me and asked,
In a low tone I said, “No”
Before I could add, he uttered” Never pay attention to Gossip mongers. Believe in your eyes and ears”
That boosted my spirit and morale.
* Never lose your economic independence….
“Dad, I am going to put my papers” I was kind of certain that I needed a much deserved break, from my job to look after my son.
He could relate to my decision but didn’t shy away from advising me..” I understand!! But never compromise on your economic independence” Those words of his,still ring in my ears.
Though our anchor and shield is no more there with us, but his words of wisdom is definitely a guiding light,which I look forward to everyday.
Dear Reader, Please feel free to express your thoughts on this write-up.
Source: Visit NowDad and his five important life lessons
