Stop Labelling Children – Let them Evolve
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.
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