- Family Values -

Traditional family values are usually passed on from one generation to the next, giving children the structure in which to make choices and grow. Family time, love, play, culture, tradition and work give children this foundation.  Take the time to share your family values and traditions with your children.  Schedule family get-together, share meals together where the family gets together to talk about the day, schedule recreation and relaxation into your day-to-day life.  The definition of family values is the social standards defined by the family and a history of traditions that provide the emotional and physical basis for raising a family.  Work together within your family to identify and create your own family values

Parents, guardians and elders are guided about the most important points regarding teaching their beloved children the path of enduring family values. The responsibility of being a father or mother goes far beyond providing food, education, clothing and maintenance of children; the responsibility for moral, ethical, religious and spiritual education falls squarely on parents and guardians, as it something that is learned at home.

More than words and sermons, our personal example is what influences the lives of our children. Whatever they see during their childhood will be the things that will influence their lives. When you argue or fight in front of children, definitely they follow you. It is essential that elders maintain the basic principles of religious life: no intoxication, no meat eating, avoidance of games of chance and illicit sex. It is very advisable that elders respect culture and tradition in front of the children.

Elders should establish at home a separate place for the worship of God, and the study of the scriptures, and meditation. The best arrangement would be to have a separate room for this purpose. Display photographs of the family guru, as well as saints and sages that inspire us. It is important to maintain at home a place that will be a refuge dedicated only to spiritual and religious life.

Elders must make efforts to converse about religion and spiritual subjects, so that children can learn to contemplate and see life from a spiritual perspective.

Elders who wish to educate their children within the tradition of the Vedic vision have to dedicate themselves to their own spiritual development and evolution by studying the revealed scriptures systematically and attending the temple, lectures and conferences of the learned people. In order to educate them we have to educate ourselves first.

Elders and householders must choose a spiritual master or a guru, follow his guidance and instructions and help serve his lineage. A spiritual master offers the family his guidance, direction, advice and blessings. 

  

Madhuvarshini - Living family values