Is Independence Day relevant to our kids?

This year, India celebrated its 69th year of independence. As is the custom, the day was marked with flag hoisting celebrations and the singing of the national anthem, along with the sweet distribution among children. As adults, we were born into an independent India and have not experienced the effects of a ruling imperial power. For our kids, probably it is just another day from their history textbooks.

So, beyond the acts of symbolism, does the Independence Day have any relevance to our kids? Beyond writing essays on Independence Day and knowing the names of our freedom fighters, can the Indian struggle for freedom provide any learning for us and our kids in today’s world? Yes, I believe so.

Some of the traits and qualities of our freedom fighters can empower us and our kids in the modern times. Here are a few of them:

• Sacrifice for a better future: All our freedom fighters dreamed of a better future. They were not even sure if they would be part of free India, but that did not stop them from their efforts. As parents, are we making sacrifices, so that our kids can benefit from them tomorrow? Are we prepared to consume less today, so that our kids have enough in tomorrow’s world? Are we passing our financial debt to them, or providing them financial support to pursue their own dreams?
• Deep sense of patriotism: Needless to say, all our freedom fighters had undying love for their country. They were ready to die for the country, but would never do anything that would bring shame to the country. Let our patriotism not be just restricted to the days when India plays a cricket match with Pakistan. For our own personal benefit, let us not do anything which is harmful to our country. As our kids look at us as role models, let us empower them with the true sense of patriotism through our actions.
• The power of unity: Our freedom fighters came from different backgrounds, religions, and caste, yet they stood united for a common cause. The collective force of united teamwork brought the British rule to its knees. Let us propagate the benefits of teamwork to our children. Encourage them when they interact with people of other religions, language, or even nationalities. The future belongs to those who can be a good team player.
• Not afraid to stand up for rights: The key words here are “not afraid” or fearless. All our freedom fighters shared this quality. They were not afraid to voice their opinions. When your child disagrees with you over something, do you enforce your opinion upon them, or encourage them to speak their minds? Let us prepare our children to be fearless and to stand up for their rights. Encourage them to develop their own independent thinking. 
• Follow a dream: All our freedom fighters followed a dream of liberating India. They were not afraid of hardships or death. Many of them were imprisoned or died a torturous death. In spite of all the difficulties, they did not give up on their dream. Are we discouraging our children from following their dreams, just because it is a path of extreme hard work and difficulties? Let us encourage our kids to follow their dreams and aspirations.

As a parent, I believe it is our responsibility in shaping our children’s character and future. We can motivate our kids by being the right role models for them. I believe the essence of “Independence Day” will be achieved when our kids can develop an independent thinking that is free from all pressures and bias.