Stop Labelling Children – Let them Evolve

 

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Stop Labelling Children – Let them Evolve

In the grand tapestry of existence, each child arrives as a pristine, unblemished thread, shimmering with infinite potential. Yet, almost from the moment of birth, society, and often even well-meaning families, begin the subtle, insidious process of labelling. "He's so shy," "She's a natural leader," "He's an artist," "She's good at math." These labels, seemingly innocuous, become invisible shackles, limiting the boundless expanse of a child's evolving consciousness. We project our expectations, our fears, our aspirations onto these nascent beings, often suffocating their authentic unfolding before it even truly begins. The spiritual journey, as illuminated by profound traditions like Himalayan Samarpan Dhyanyog, underscores the paramount importance of allowing the individual spirit to evolve organically, untainted by external impositions.

The wisdom imparted by enlightened masters such as Shivkrupanand Swamiji consistently emphasises the inherent divinity within each being. This divinity, a spark of the Universal Consciousness, doesn't conform to predefined moulds or societal categories. To label a child is to deny this inherent divinity its full expression, to attempt to fit an ocean into a teacup. When we categorise children, we subtly instruct them on who they "should" be, rather than nurturing who they truly are. This often leads to internal conflict, a struggle to either conform to the label or to break free from its confines, a struggle that can persist well into adulthood. The very essence of Dhyanyog, the practice of meditation and self-realisation, is to shed layers of conditioning and discover the unadulterated truth of one's being. How can we expect children to embark on this journey if we, their first guides, are the ones applying the very labels they will later need to shed?

Consider the delicate process of evolution in nature. A sapling isn't labelled a "fruit tree" or a "shade tree" at its inception; it simply is, and through nurturing, sunlight, and time, it evolves into its unique expression. Similarly, a child's true nature is not fixed at birth. Their personality, talents, and purpose are meant to unfold organically, guided by their inner wisdom and the subtle currents of universal energy. When we label, we pre-empt this unfolding, creating a psychological barrier that can hinder their natural growth. A child labelled "not smart" might internalise this, never truly exploring their intellectual capabilities. One labelled "difficult" might lean into that role, stifling their capacity for compassion and cooperation.

Shivkrupanand Swamiji often speaks of the importance of an egoless approach to life, of seeing beyond the superficial layers of identity. This applies profoundly to how we interact with children. Instead of trying to define them, we should strive to observe them with an open heart, to listen to their unspoken needs, and to provide an environment of unconditional acceptance. This doesn't mean a lack of guidance or discipline, but rather a guidance rooted in understanding and respect for their evolving soul, not in pre-conceived notions. Himalayan Samarpan Dhyanyog teaches us to connect with the inner silence, to quiet the chattering mind that constantly seeks to categorise and judge. Extending this practice to our interactions with children means cultivating a mindful presence that acknowledges their wholeness, even as they are in the process of becoming.

Ultimately, the act of stopping labelling children is an act of spiritual liberation – for them and for us. It is an acknowledgment of their inherent perfection and their unique path. It is an embrace of the mystery and wonder of human development, allowing each soul the space to blossom in its own time and in its own way. By releasing the need to define them, we empower them to truly evolve, to discover their authentic self, and to contribute their unique light to the world, unburdened by the weight of expectations. Let us instead offer them the freedom to simply be, and witness the magnificent unfolding of their true spiritual essence.