"The profession of a teacher is the noblest and the most responsible one in every country. If the teacher strays from the path of truth, the entire society will suffer. Hence teachers must make every effort to live their life uprightly. You have in your charge, looking up to you for guidance, innocent children who have no knowledge yet of the world and its ways. It is only when the teachers themselves are wedded to discipline and observe good habits that their pupils will be able to shape themselves into ideal individuals and citizens. Cultivate in your own heart the spirit of sacrifice, the virtues of charity and the awareness of Divinity. Then you will easily cultivate these in the hearts of the children. Try your best to reshape the present educational system. In the initial stages you will find this task very difficult and exhausting, but be assured, in time, you will find your task more easy."
(Divine Discourse, Jul 25, 1978) By Baba
Children are buds who are blossoming slowly. The growing up years are very important and the right upbringing and teaching brings out the best in humans. Discipline plays a huge role. It does not mean that children should be punished harshly. In fact, it is now an offense to beat or harm a child.
When we were young, parents and teachers did not spare the rod if we were naughty nor did they hesitate to scold us or teach us manners. Nowadays, the situation has changed drastically. Children, especially teenagers have little or no respect towards elders. Parenting teenagers can be a harrowing experience especially if the teens are not very cooperative.
Disciplining children when they are younger does help reduce the stress of the parents and teachers to an extent. Make sure that the children are not addicted to smartphone or other such gadgets right from an early age itself.
It does not hurt to discipline a child but harsh punishments are a no no. Making the child realize the mistake is what you should do rather than senselessly beating him or her up.
Teaching is a noble profession and most often, the teachers are not given their due. It is the teacher who shapes the personality of the student and helps him/her grow into a good person who is respected and loved by all.
Teachers should be given respect, love and consideration. They should also be given higher pay because it is they who ensure that the child you entrust them comes out polished and educated.
There are exceptions as in all fields, who are sometimes a disgrace but ignore such examples and try to catch up with your teachers from your school and maybe visit them or mail them a gift. Their blessings and happiness will surely protect you.
