Author : Neha Mulay
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, amidst discussions about the harsh realities of the world, there are moments that stir the soul and reaffirm the beauty of human compassion. Such a moment unfolded recently during a heartfelt conversation with my family, where the topic of girls’ safety and the importance of self-defense took center stage.
My son, with a wisdom beyond his years, emphasized the necessity for both boys and girls to learn self-defense in light of the escalating rates of violence against women. His words echoed a fundamental truth: that safety and empowerment are not gender-specific issues, but concerns that affect us all.
Adding to the dialogue, my husband underscored the importance of awareness about the physical changes that adolescents undergo—a topic often overlooked in mainstream discussions about safety and well-being.
As we delved deeper into the conversation, each reference to the troubling headlines that inundate our newspapers served as a stark reminder of the harsh realities of the world we inhabit. Yet, amidst the somber discourse, a ray of hope emerged unexpectedly.
My son retreated to his room momentarily, only to return bearing a pack of sanitary pads. Bewildered, my husband and I questioned his intentions, to which he responded with a clarity and maturity that left us both speechless.
He explained that his college lacked a vending machine for menstrual products, and situated as it was in an area bustling with male workers, access to medical stores was often limited for his female peers. In a gesture of empathy and solidarity, he carried sanitary pads with him, ensuring that no girl would feel embarrassed or ashamed due to the lack of access to basic necessities.
His words resonated deeply within me, touching a chord that transcended mere maternal pride. In that moment, I realized that raising good humans—compassionate, empathetic individuals who are attuned to the needs of others—is the most profound legacy a parent can leave.
Tears welled in my eyes as I embraced my son tightly, overwhelmed by the depth of his understanding and acceptance. It was a moment of validation, a silent acknowledgment that I was indeed succeeding in instilling the values of empathy and compassion in my children.
In a world that often measures success in terms of academic achievements or material possessions, it is easy to lose sight of the importance of nurturing these essential human qualities. Yet, as a mother, I am reminded that true success lies not in external accolades, but in the ability to empathize, connect, and uplift others.
My son’s actions serve as a poignant reminder that societal progress is not solely measured by legislative reforms or policy changes, but by the everyday acts of kindness and understanding that shape our interactions with one another.
As I reflect on this moment, I am filled with a sense of gratitude—for the opportunity to witness the blossoming of empathy in my son, and for the reminder that the greatest gift we can give our children is not found in textbooks or material possessions, but in the values we impart and the example we set.
In nurturing compassion and empathy within our children, we sow the seeds of a more compassionate and equitable world—one where kindness triumphs over cruelty, and understanding transcends barriers of gender, race, and religion.
So, to all the mothers out there striving to raise empathetic sons and daughters, let us continue to lead by example, to nurture compassion and understanding in our children, and to celebrate the beauty of human kindness in all its forms. For in doing so, we not only honor the legacy of love passed down to us, but also pave the way for a brighter, more compassionate future for generations to come.
About the Author:
My name is Neha Mulay and I am a mother of a 20-year-old who is persuing his major in Psychology. An educator by profession with a 15year experience in preschool on developing curriculums to Teacher’s Training.
A passion for reading and exploring helps me interact with everyone easily. I am also a freelance Voiceover Artist lending my Voice to a few Documentary films and educational films.
I gladly can define myself as “A People’s Person” who loves interacting and understanding people on the opposite side.
