Looking anxiously at the state of the confused, vulnerable, misguided youth of today, we seniors tend to draw parallels from our past – simple needs, modest facilities available, humble upbringing, value-based education imparted with simplest tools by dedicated teachers and the habits that got inculcated early on in life because we had examples to emulate in the form of selfless parents, mentors, leaders and the society at large.
The education system seems to be facing manifold challenges as technology and AI plays an overarching role in moulding young minds and preparing them to face the world. So with all the inputs that come in the form of study materials in apps for various subjects and tuitions and separate counseling facilities, why are standards found to be wanting ? Importantly, developing good habits, strong values and vital life skills find less space.
It dawns on us that, some of the best moral lessons we learnt in school came from the simplest one line ‘Proverbs’ that shaped our everyday lives by offering short & practical rules guiding our choices, communication and work habits. Each one was a small gem of wisdom : ‘Practice makes perfect’, ‘Better late than never’ and ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover’ are examples of small sayings that form the foundations of character building. There are very many but let’s dwell below on three proverbs that can prove most useful :
“A stitch in time saves nine”: This reminds us to fix small problems right away before they grow into large, expensive disasters. Sounds simple enough to understand but not easily followed. So there’s one that complements it ‘Don’t keep for tomorrow what you can do today’ because the human tendency is to procrastinate and postpone not knowing that opportunity may get lost. The phrase ‘Early Bird Incentive’ was taken from another proverb that if you’re quick and alert to act fast you might be rewarded !
“Actions speak louder than words”: This keeps you focused on doing what you promised rather than just making empty claims. Sunnyji, Cricket’s Little Master says of the starry players ‘Let the bat do the talking’ rather than flashy media bytes. Our leaders lead in making grand announcements & promises during their campaigns but forget the same, post their poll victory. Nearer home it always that ‘Proof of the pudding is in the eating’. ‘Honesty is the best policy’ but today cynically, most people don’t think so.
“You reap what you sow”: A person who does bad deeds like cheat and steal, spreads disharmony and ill-will can expect due consequences for his actions. And this is also true with good deeds and actions. Of course, just because you are a nice guy doesn’t mean that you automatically will have good things happen to you. Goodness, charity, generosity and compassion are higher virtues that are non-transactional & unconditional in dealings. Yet, ‘What goes around comes around’ & good things do happen to good folks !
