As Khalil Gibran wisely said, “Parents are the bows from which children as living arrows are sent forth.” As a mother, I have always been conscious of this quote and it shaped our parenting not around owning or controlling our children but preparing them to seek their life’s purpose and be ready to live it well. Parenting has been about instilling values, providing guidance, and creating a solid foundation upon which they can build their lives. How well we fulfill this role shapes the quality of the life they create, enriched by character, purpose, and resilience.
Raising two children in the same home has been vastly different, as their soul’s purpose in this life is unique. As parents, we have tried to find the sweet spot between helping them realize their purpose and preparing them to fulfill it well. For us, parenting (for our kids and those of our siblings) has been more about nurturing their character and equipping them to navigate life’s complexities than worrying about what their future should be like. Character has always been more important than career. It involves teaching right from wrong, cultivating self-awareness, and fostering accountability. By encouraging our kids to seek what truly fulfills them rather than being drawn to material distractions, we help them shape lives of meaning and purpose. We also guide them to reflect on challenges with integrity, prompting them to ask, “By which value shall I approach this situation?” This mindfulness becomes their inner compass, steering them toward decisions rooted in values.
Equally important, we have taught them the power of disconnecting from the world regularly and finding solace in nature, to remain grounded, humble, and in tune with nature’s gifts.
This approach finds resonance in the Bhagavad Gita, which emphasizes dharma (righteous duty) and karma (action). Parenting embodies dharma by instilling virtues and teaching respect, while embracing karma by encouraging independence and purposeful choices. The Gita reminds us to focus on effort rather than outcome, a lesson that deeply aligns with our parental journey.
As children transition into pivotal life stage of adulthood, forging their careers, or facing the world on their own, our role evolves into one of quiet confidence and unwavering support. Though they may be far from home, they carry with them the values we have instilled, guiding them toward wise and purposeful choices. These moments mark the beginning of their real-world test, where preparation meets challenge. Parenting begins with guiding their every step, but as they grow, it transforms into trusting the steps they take on their own.
Ultimately, parenting is a journey of trust, growth, and love. It is not about holding onto our children (though children are our memories) but about letting them soar, knowing the roots we have nurtured will always anchor them. As they rise to meet their purpose, we step back with faith, knowing well that the values, wisdom, and love we have nurtured will be the wind beneath their wings. And as they navigate this journey, we stand right behind them, as their cheer leaders of their flight.
May we all parent with purpose, raising not just successful individuals, but strong, kind, and purpose-driven souls. Soul Parenting!