humility

Reflecting on my journey as a pediatrician and a parent, I often find myself returning to a moment when my own child approached me with a question that was both simple and profound: “What makes a good person, Papa?” That innocent query encapsulated an entire world of thought, one that has guided my professional life, my pursuit of spiritual growth, and my devotion to Swamy’s teachings. Much like the families I meet every day, my child sought to understand their place in this vast, intricate tapestry of existence. This moment is where I found the essence of what I now call Sai-centric Parenting—a way to nurture the Four Pillars of Life that build up a child’s character and ensure their well-being.

The first pillar, Health, is the foundation of a child’s life. From my medical observations, I’ve seen how a child’s health is influenced profoundly by their environment. Here is where the T.E.A.R. formula—Thoughts, Emotions, Actions, Results—plays a vital role. When we foster positive thoughts and emotions about health in our children, they naturally take actions that lead to healthier outcomes. My son, for example, once joined me on a daily walk, which soon turned into our bonding ritual where we discussed our day and dreams. These simple routines, combined with Swamy’s wisdom of seeing the body as a temple, make maintaining health an act of spiritual and physical awareness.

Relationships, the second pillar, are the threads that connect our lives to others. I often tell parents, having observed countless families, that connection is about conscious communication and emotional regulation. A story comes to mind of a young patient whose anxiety was eased not by medication alone but by the loving support and understanding of his family. By practicing Sai’s teaching of empathy and seva, or service, we remind our children of the importance of compassion. Encourage activities that bring children closer to understanding others’ lives, teaching them the values of kindness and service through shared family endeavors.

Financial Values form the third pillar, shaping a child’s respect and understanding of resources. I recall guiding a family through a simple exercise of gratitude journaling for their children, transforming their perception of abundance from an external measure to an internal sense of satisfaction. By teaching children that true richness lies in simplicity and sharing, we align their financial values with principles of humility, another lesson dear to Swamy.

Knowledge, the fourth pillar, is perhaps where the role of parental guidance is most visible. A child who approaches learning with curiosity and wonder is a child empowered. I share with parents the story of a young student who, through daily affirmations and encouragement, overcame his struggles in academics and grew into a confident learner. This transformation reaffirms the importance of cultivating a learning-friendly environment, imbued with love and patience, guiding children to see their failures as stepping stones to success.

Discipline with love, a tool I learned from both my medical practice and spiritual path, is vital across all pillars. It’s not about strictness but about setting boundaries with compassion and understanding. Through these practices, we teach our children that the most meaningful education is that of the heart.

Sai Baba beautifully said, “The end of education is character.” This underlines the essence of Sai-centric Parenting: building character through a strong foundation of health, relationships, financial values, and knowledge—all nurtured by love, compassion, and the teachings of Swamy.

Please share your thoughts, experiences, or questions in the comment box below. I read every comment with love and deep respect.