Dear Readers,

The single most important factor which determines the wellbeing and evolution of a civilised society, a conscientious nation and a progressive world, is education. Educators, therefore, are revered as crucial architects of a peaceful present and a thriving future. We owe much to our teachers. Their influence in our lives extends way beyond the classroom, their guidance drives and empowers us through our youth and adulthood.

When we reminisce our childhood days, one of our first recalls is our teachers. The teacher is an awakener with a big heart, who helps shape little minds. Despite a student’s many failures, struggles and lacking self-belief systems, a word of encouragement and support from teachers builds self-esteem, touching the lives of many who have gone on to become legends.

Even so, these noble souls who shape our lives, strive on uncomplainingly in an under-appreciated and sometimes thankless profession. I believe it is only the truly fortunate who are blessed to learn under the wisdom and guidance of good teachers, the rest learn through life’s trials-and-errors. A good teacher enables our evolution from being simply literate to being educated – imbibing in us principles, values, mindsets and attitudes.

As Parsis, we are known as one of the more educated communities worldwide, and our Parsi educators – teachers, tutors, principals, et al – simply stand out, not just in terms of ensuring their students’ academic excellence, but also as mentors and confidants, unconditionally lighting up dark pathways and empowering students to head towards their destinations, successfully.

Having a good teacher in your life is a blessing, having one in the family, like I do, is so much more to be grateful for. To strike an analogy with Rudyard Kipling’s famous quote: “God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers,” …it would be no less true to say, “God could not enlighten and empower everyone, and therefore he made teachers!”

Here’s wishing all our lovely teachers a Happy Teacher’s Day, with every heartfelt gratitude.

Have a lovely weekend!

– Anahita