Sahil Pandita
National Parents Day, celebrated every fourth Sunday of July, is a day dedicated to honoring and appreciating the hard work, sacrifices and love of parents. In 2024, as we mark this special day, it’s important to reflect on the changing role of parents in our lives and society. Unfortunately, there is a growing trend where the respect and importance given to parents seem to be diminishing, especially among the younger generations.
The Growing Trend of Vridh Ashrams
In recent years, a concerning trend has emerged where many children, after their marriage, leave their parents in old age homes, known as “vridh ashrams.” These homes are meant to provide care and shelter to elderly people who have no one to look after them. While they do provide a necessary service, it’s heartbreaking to see so many parents end up in these homes, abandoned by their children.
The reasons for this are varied. Some children might move to different cities or countries for work and find it difficult to take their parents along. Others might feel that their parents would be better cared for in a vridh ashram. However, in many cases, the root cause is a lack of respect and love for the parents.
The Decline of Respect for Parents
Nowadays, children don’t respect their parents as they used to. Many youngsters see their parents as a burden rather than as the people who gave them life, nurtured them, and made countless sacrifices for their well-being. This lack of respect often leads to situations where parents are insulted or ignored by their own children.
In the past, parents were considered the pillars of the family, and their advice and wisdom were highly valued. Today, in many households, the importance of parents has been reduced with the coming generations. The fast-paced modern lifestyle, coupled with the influence of Western culture, has contributed to this decline. Many young people are more focused on their careers and personal lives, leaving little room for their parents.
The Emotional and Social Impact on Parents
The emotional toll on parents who are abandoned or disrespected by their children is immense. They feel a deep sense of betrayal and sadness. The loneliness and isolation they experience can lead to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. The social fabric of our society is also affected, as the bond between generations weakens.
Parents who end up in vridh ashrams often face a loss of dignity and self-worth. They feel like they are no longer valued or needed. This is a stark contrast to the respect and honor they once received from their families.
The Importance of Parents in Our Lives
Parents play a crucial role in shaping our lives. From the moment we are born, they provide us with love care, and guidance. They teach us values, morals,and life skills. They make sacrifices to ensure we have a good education, a safe home, and a bright future.
As we grow older, the roles should ideally reverse to some extent. Just as they took care of us when we were young, it becomes our responsibility to care for them in their old age. This includes not only providing for their physical needs but also offering emotional support and companionship.
Rebuilding the Bond
It’s not too late to change the current trend and rebuild the bond between parents and children. Here are a few steps we can take:
* Spend Quality Time Together: Make an effort to spend time with your parents. Listen to their stories, seek their advice, and involve them in your life. This helps in strengthening the emotional connection.
* Show Appreciation: Small gestures of love and appreciation can go a long way. A simple “thank you” or “I love you” can make a huge difference in making your parents feel valued.
Include Them in Your Decisions: Make your parents a part of important decisions in your life. Their experience and wisdom can provide valuable insights.
Take Care of Their Needs: Ensure that their physical, emotional, and financial needs are met. This includes regular health check-ups, spending time with them, and providing for their necessities.
Promote Family Values: Teach your children the importance of respecting and valuing their grandparents. Lead by example and show them how to care for the elderly.
Conclusion
National Parents Day 2024 is a perfect opportunity for us to reflect on the role of parents in our lives and make a conscious effort to show them the respect and love they deserve. It’s a day to honor their sacrifices and appreciate their unconditional love. By doing so, we can strengthen the bond between generations and ensure that our parents feel valued and respected.
Let’s take a pledge this Parents Day to be there for our parents, to listen to them, to care for them, and to make them feel special. After all, they are the ones who gave us everything, and it’s our turn to give back to them.
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