Values are guiding principles, or standards of behavior which are considered attractive, important and held in high esteem by the society in which a person lives. Our character is an expression of values that we have attained. We have learnt values from our parents and teachers. It is now our responsibility to pass on the same to the generation that follows, so that they will be able to conduct their lives in peace and tranquility. Inculcating values will give us all the ability to differentiate and understand right and develop love towards one’s nations, fellow human beings, deep concern and well-being of all in this creation and much more. Values gives us the capacity to face circumstances with a positive attitude, acceptance comes effortlessly. It is believed that value education begins at home and is developed in the school.
Industrialization, globalization, and liberalization is bringing about many transformations in the society, consequently a lackadaisical approach towards values is a component and is prevalent in the humankind these days. The only way we can stay away from the hazards all these changes create, is by inculcating more spiritual principles in our lives and what better way than learning it from the phenomenal, divine presence of Sadguru Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi. “Amma” as she is known world over.
When a child went to Gurukula in the earlier times, he not only learnt the art of weapons, or the art of reading, but more he learnt the philosophy of existence and its impermanence. Education in India has forever been this vision to attain the absolute and in the process practice of one’s duty. Amma started “amrita Vidyalayms” keeping the Gurukula system of education in mind where values play an important role. Amrita Vidyalayam, is a temple where values are imparted to the mass in the best possible manner.
Amma attaches great importance to providing education and training to children for development of their creativity, intelligence and character. She says that, “It is during the years of moulding the great care is needed, like the care a fence provides for a young sapling.” She wants the children to have optimum education that helps in their comprehensive development. Amma says, “Gaining, mastery over the mind is real education.” We have all been blessed with praiseworthy opportunity to learn and serve at an institution that is an embodiment of all the virtues one can dream of. Let us all work together and pray to the Almighty to grace us all with surrender and strength to make best of opportunities given to us.
Om Namah Shivaya
