India is such a rich and diverse nation and we are so privileged to be able to call India our motherland. But it has not come without a cost. Barely 75 years ago, we were under another, subjugated to their rule and power.  But with the blood of martyrs and because of other men and women who fought hard for our freedom, here we are today enjoying this wonderful country as free men and women.

 

Because it was so fresh for our grandparents and parents, many of us grew up with a strong sense of pride and love for our country. But now, we’ve got so caught up with our own busy lives that Independence and Republic days come and go and all we are excited about is that we get to have a holiday! How much of a love for our country and our people are we imparting to our children today? We cannot just expect them to learn about these things in school. It is our responsibility as parents to teach our children these values.

 

This year we are celebrating 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhiji was an amazing human being. When we read about his life, we realise that he was just an ordinary person but with extraordinary convictions. He stood up for what he believed was right and no matter what the challenges and obstacles he faced, he just kept persevering. And at the end of the day, that’s what made him great.

 

Because there is so much injustice, violence and evil around, we have in many ways hardened our hearts and don’t feel for people around. But it doesn’t have to be that way. We may not be able to change the nation, but we can change the lives of people around us, one act at a time. And we can include our children in the process.

 

This year at our Kids Joy School, we are encouraging parents, along with their children, to reach out to someone around them. It doesn’t have to cost much. But it can make a huge difference.

 

Talk to your child about the difficulties people face, show them pictures and videos of children in our country who don’t have food. When you’re on the road and see someone begging, don’t cross the other way and shield your child from them. Strike a conversation with them, buy them something to eat. Show your child that you care and they too will start caring.

 

Let Independence Day be different this year. Do something out of the ordinary for someone less fortunate than you, whether it be your helper at home, your watchman, a beggar, an orphanage or any thing else you can think of. Involve your children in it. Be the change and make India a better place.

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