An Article By Vijay Batra
Students at an elementary school were asked to write an essay about what they would like God to do for them. At the end of the day, while grading the essays, a teacher read one that made her very emotional. Her husband, who had just walked in, saw her crying and asked her "What happened`" She answered "Read this. It is one of my school's students' essays." "Oh God, tonight I ask you something very special. Make me into a television set. I want to take its place and live like the TV in my house. Have my own special place, and have my family around me. To be taken seriously when I talk. I want to be the center of attention and be heard without interruptions or questions. I want to receive the same special care as the TV set receives even when it is not working. Have the company of my dad when he arrives home from work, even when he is tired. And I want my mom to want me when she is sad and upset, instead of ignoring me. And I want my brothers to fight to be with me. I want to feel that family just leaves everything aside, every now and then, just to spend some time with me. And last but not least, ensure that I can make them all happy and entertain them. Lord I don't ask you for much. I just want to live like a TV." At that moment the husband said `My God, poor kid. What horrible parents!" The wife looked up at him and said "That essay is our son's!" The above story is relevant for many of us. Being related doesn`t mean that the relationship needs no nurturing. Often talking to people I have come to realize that many of us feel that if I need to nurture a relationship with my spouse, my son, my daughter, my sister or brother, there is something inherently wrong. Contrary is the case, just because the person is my `real` brother or sister, husband or wife, I need to make an effort to nurture the relationship. Yes when our `loved` ones are in some physical pain, we are all there to help them get better, but very often unless they are in physical pain, they get no nurturing. I feel that if we were to consistently nurture our family members even when they are physically fine, we will live enriching lives. Being lively not lonely in a family should be our motto. Let us make sure that we consistently make efforts to feel and express TLC, tender loving care to each and every individual family member.