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Children Should Be Made To Realize That They Cannot Be Happy All The Time

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There is no eternal happiness or endless cheerfulness. Children should be made to realize that they cannot be happy all the time. They need to learn to deal with other emotions. They should have better control over all emotions. Parents who always keep children in comfort zones are in reality damaging their future life. One fine day they are pushed out of the comfort zone and asked to deal with all forms of negative emotions. This is when they become depressed or go wayward.

Amrithakadeshwarar Temple At Melakadambur - Tamil Nadu - India

 
To achieve deeper happiness we need to go through all emotions – sadness, disgust, fear, anger and frustration. We need to accept them and deal with them.

For well-being throughout life, children should be allowed to face all forms of emotions. They should be made to realize that not everything is wonderful.

They should be prepared to identify, understand, interpret and respond constructively to all forms of situations and emotions. Such children will be empathetic, capable of having good relationships and capable of overcoming relationship related issues.

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The concept that children should be made to realize they cannot be happy all the time is rooted in various philosophical and cultural traditions, including Hindu wisdom. Here are some key points to consider, reflecting Hindu perspectives and general philosophical thoughts on the subject:

1. Impermanence and Acceptance

In Hindu philosophy, the concept of impermanence (Anitya or Anicca) is central. Life is viewed as a series of changing experiences, and attachment to a single emotional state, such as happiness, is seen as unrealistic and potentially leading to suffering (Dukkha). Teaching children about impermanence helps them understand that emotions, both positive and negative, are transient and part of the human experience.

2. The Balance of Life (Samatva)

The Bhagavad Gita, a key Hindu text, emphasizes equanimity (Samatva). This means maintaining a balanced mind in the face of success and failure, pleasure and pain. Educating children about this balance can help them develop resilience and emotional stability, knowing that happiness and sadness are both natural parts of life.

3. The Four Pursuits of Life (Purusharthas)

Hinduism outlines the four aims of human life: Dharma (duty/ethics), Artha (prosperity/work), Kama (desires/passions), and Moksha (liberation). While pursuing happiness (Kama) is important, it should be balanced with ethical living (Dharma), material responsibilities (Artha), and spiritual growth (Moksha). This holistic approach teaches children that happiness is just one aspect of a fulfilling life.

4. Karma and Life's Lessons

The principle of Karma underscores that actions have consequences, and life involves learning from these consequences. Children should understand that not every situation will be pleasant, but each experience provides a learning opportunity, contributing to their personal growth and understanding of the world.

5. Mindfulness and Meditation

Practices like mindfulness and meditation (Dhyana) are integral to Hindu teachings and can be valuable tools for children. These practices encourage awareness and acceptance of the present moment, helping children to manage their emotions effectively and understand that it’s normal to experience a range of feelings.

6. Stories and Teachings

Hindu mythology and stories from scriptures like the Ramayana and Mahabharata offer lessons about the complexities of life, the importance of perseverance, and the inevitability of ups and downs. Sharing these stories can impart wisdom about coping with challenges and recognizing that happiness is one part of a larger tapestry of experiences.

Practical Steps for Parents and Educators

  1. Model Emotional Balance: Demonstrate how to handle both positive and negative emotions with grace and composure.
  2. Teach Resilience: Encourage children to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks.
  3. Encourage Reflection: Use storytelling, meditation, and discussions to help children reflect on their experiences and emotions.
  4. Promote a Growth Mindset: Help children understand that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work.

By integrating these principles, children can develop a healthy understanding of happiness and learn to navigate life's inevitable ups and downs with greater ease and resilience.


Abhilash
www.hindu-blog.com