The Role of Parental Habits in Shaping a Better Self

As a child, our relationship with our parents plays a pivotal role in how we perceive ourselves and the world around us. The habits and teachings from our parents can profoundly influence our character development and personal growth. Drawing from both my father and mother, I have learned invaluable lessons that have shaped me into the better person I am today.

Habit of Comprehensive Commitment to Skills and Knowledge

From My Father: Always Teach with Passion and Clarity

One of the most significant lessons I received from my father was his unwavering commitment to teaching me any skill or knowledge with utmost clarity and passion. From a young age, my father would patiently explain complex concepts, ensuring I understood them thoroughly before moving on. This habit has equipped me with the ability to break down tasks and communicate them effectively, a skill that has served me well in both personal and professional settings.

Habit of Wholehearted Service and Hospitality

From My Mother: Serve Guests Wholeheartedly

My mother has always instilled in me the importance of serving others with genuine care and warmth. From hosting guests and cooking meals to visiting the temple to serve the needy and feed street dogs, she taught me the value of compassion and the rewards of selfless service. These experiences have helped me develop patience, honesty, and a strong sense of loyalty in my personal and professional relationships.

Embracing Work Ethic and Time Management

Both my parents were hard workers who exemplified dedication and punctuality. I vividly remember their early mornings, dedicated to agricultural work. This reinforced the importance of work ethic, time management, and being disciplined from a young age. On days when I wanted to avoid going to school or procrastinate, they would remind me of the value of hard work and education. This pushed me to cultivate consistent habits and avoid complacency.

Lessons from Social Work and Volunteering

Growing up, I was fortunate to be exposed to various forms of social work and volunteering. Visiting the temple and distributing food to the less fortunate, as well as taking care of street dogs, were regular activities. These experiences taught me valuable lessons about resilience in tough times and the importance of honesty and integrity in all aspects of life. These qualities have significantly influenced my personal growth and character development, making me a more responsible and trustworthy individual.

Bonding Through Family Activities and Open Communication

My parents were not just strict with discipline; they were also warm and nurturing. On weekends, they would take us camping, which became some of my fondest memories. We would sit down to eat dinner every night, engaging in conversations that kept our minds active and our spirits connected. My father's playful nature and willingness to engage in everyday activities like running errands with me made a lasting impact. His kindness and patience were teachings that I never forgot.

Striking the Balance Between Positive and Negative Lessons

While my parents were remarkably supportive and providing, they also had a few negative habits that I tried to avoid teaching my own children. For instance, my mother often resorted to physical and verbal punishment, which I believed could lead to detrimental emotional scars. Additionally, she was overly controlling about practicing the piano, which contributed to my siblings' and my decision to abandon music due to frustration. From these experiences, I learned the importance of respecting individual passions and prioritizing emotional well-being over external expectations.

The Legacy of Parental Teachings

Although my parents weren't always perfect, the positive lessons they imparted have had a lasting impact on my own parenting style. I ensure that I focus on instilling values such as honesty, kindness, and perseverance while avoiding the negative aspects like physical punishment and excessive control. Ultimately, I believe that our children often grow into the kind of people we hoped for because of the love and guidance we provide. Our family's journey through life has been enriched by the lessons of my parents, and I hope to continue this legacy for future generations.