"Lessons on Temperance: A Dinner Table Drama"
"What we preach and What we practice"
Today, I had an eye-opening experience at a restaurant that gave me some important insights into the lessons we teach our #children about #respect and temperance.
I had just settled into my seat and started to browse the menu when a couple with a child, who seemed to be about 5 or 6 years old, sat down at the table next to mine. The restaurant was busy, and the waitstaff moved swiftly, bringing our ordered food and cutlery with practiced efficiency.
As the waitperson carefully placed the plates and utensils on their table, I noticed the man’s demeanor change abruptly. Before the waitperson could even finish setting the table, the man’s voice cut through the hum of the restaurant, sharp and angry.
“Can’t you see the plate is dirty? Are you blind? Why are you working here if you don’t have the etiquette to work in a restaurant?” he yelled.
The restaurant seemed to pause for a moment. The waitperson, maintaining a calm exterior, quickly apologized and rushed off to replace the supposedly dirty plate. The small child watched this interaction intently, their eyes wide and absorbing every word, every action.
As I observed this scene, a thought struck me: we often teach children that no job is too small, that everyone makes mistakes, and the importance of gratitude and respect. Yet, how often do we, as adults, fail to embody these lessons ourselves? Here was a perfect example of the discrepancy between #what we preach and what we practice.
The child, witnessing their father’s outburst, was learning a lesson in that moment. Not about cleanliness or restaurant etiquette, but about how to treat others. If we want our children to grow up to #be kind, #respectful, and #gracious, we must model that behavior ourselves. It’s not enough to tell them; they need to see it in action.
Reflecting on this, I realized how critical it is for us as parents and elders to lead by example. We cannot expect our children to refrain from belittling others if we do not hold ourselves to the same standard. It’s a call to #mindfulness in our daily interactions, especially those that seem mundane or trivial. Every moment is a teaching moment.
As the waitperson returned with a fresh plate, I caught their eye and gave them a sympathetic smile. It was a small gesture, but one I hoped would convey my appreciation for their hard work and patience. And as I did so, I made a silent promise to myself: to be more aware of my #actions and words, especially in the presence of children who are always watching and learning.
This experience was a powerful reminder that true temperance and respect are demonstrated not just in grand gestures but in the small, everyday moments. It’s in these moments that we truly teach and shape #the next generation.
"Children embody all we cherish: innocence, forgiveness, friendliness, joy, caring and sharing, creativity, and unconditional love," said #Sri Sri Ravi shankar ji. As parents, it’s our duty to nurture these #values to empower them for discerning right and wrong, appropriate and inappropriate as children grow into adults. Our actions speak louder than words, especially to #children who learn by observing us.
How can we ensure that we consistently practice what we preach, setting a positive example for the next generation? What strategies can we adopt to promote an #attitude of gratitude and respect in our interactions, even in challenging situations?
Share your insights and experiences on how we can collectively foster a culture of empathy and kindness. How do you teach your children the values of love and joy through your #everyday actions? Let’s discuss practical ways to embody and teach these essential #values, ensuring they flourish as our children grow.
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