When your journey becomes a story worth telling — featured on Humans of Bombay.
“I remember when I was 23, my mom told me that some ‘guests’ were coming to visit. When I found out it was a potential groom and his family, I snuck out to my aunt’s house and told my parents that I’d only start meeting guys after I settled in my career. They agreed; over the next 2 years, I completed my Masters in Journalism and started working.
Little did I know that a career choice would land me in such a puddle in the world of groom-hunting! Everyone warned me that it would be difficult for me to find a groom because of my job. A neighbour blatantly told me that I’m in a ‘wrong kind of job for girls’ and should be in a secure one with shorter working hours. My relatives told me that men would get too intimidated by my career.
One of my seniors even said, ‘It’s always difficult for journalists and lawyers to find husbands because they are ‘too smart’ and difficult to ‘domesticate.’ But their opinions didn’t matter– I wasn’t going to settle. I knew I wanted someone who respects my career choice and is proud of it, rather than insecure about it.
I met 14 guys– but I turned them all down for different reasons. One guy told me that ‘he was okay with me working’, provided I also manage the house. I was so put off; I’d love to be there for my family and help my husband look after the home but I certainly didn’t need his approval to work.
Another guy’s mom said, ‘Your daughter talks more than my son.’ I walked out of that one– I knew red flags when I saw them. It basically felt as if most of the guys were afraid that I’d overshadow them and not look after their parents– they wanted me to be that perpetually smiling but silent ‘doll’ that they could carry to social gatherings.
I wasn’t under any pressure to just marry and get it over with; I waited to find the right guy. Eventually, I did end up meeting an intelligent guy who I decided to marry! I knew he was the one right from the start– from cooking for us when I was busy, to taking care of our son if I was at work, to seeking my advice on financial decisions; he does it all.
I remember once, I was out at a Women’s Day event with my colleagues, and at 8 PM all the women started panicking and rushing home, saying they had to put their kids to sleep or cook dinner. But I was so calm– I went home to find my son tucked into bed; that’s how partners support each other.
I didn’t marry my husband so he could fill a void or because I was missing something– I married him because he felt like my equal, someone I could grow with. I found the right guy without letting my career take a backseat, and isn’t that how it should be?”
By Devanshi Joshi
Nurturing Values In Children Through Storytelling
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In the world of childhood development, there exists a profound truth encapsulated in an age-old Indian proverb: "Tell me a fact, and I'll learn. Tell me a truth, and I'll believe. But tell me a story, and it will live in my heart forever." This eloquent expression underscores the transformative power of storytelling in imparting values to our children.
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As parents, educators, and storytellers, we navigate the intricate landscape of childhood, seeking ways to instill virtues and moral principles in young hearts and minds. While facts and truths hold significance in shaping intellectual understanding and belief systems, it is through storytelling that values take root and flourish in the fertile soil of a child's imagination.
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In the journey of parenting and education, a pervasive challenge emerges is how to cultivate values in our children. As both parents and educators, we often witness firsthand the trials children encounter when faced with disappointment and failure. Whether it be the bitterness of defeat in sports or the frustration of academic setbacks, children grapple with adversity in various forms.
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As adults, we commonly offer consolation by emphasizing the importance of participation over victory. However, these reassurances frequently fall short of instilling resilience and acceptance in children. This realization spurred an exploration of alternative methods for imparting life's lessons to our youth.
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The creation of book 'Young Hearts, Wise Minds' marked a significant milestone in this journey.
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Through this book, storytelling emerged as a powerful conduit for conveying profound truths to children. One narrative, 'A Mother's Recipe for Success', resonated deeply with its audience. It chronicles a mother's heartfelt journey, offering solace and wisdom to her son following his defeat in a badminton tournament. Through her narrative, the boy learns to perceive victory and defeat through a lens of resilience and growth.
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Indeed, storytelling has emerged as a potent tool for nurturing values in children. Unlike traditional lectures, stories possess a unique ability to captivate young minds, encouraging introspection and exploration of virtues such as honesty, organization, and compassion.
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Throughout history, storytelling has played a pivotal role in shaping character and instilling virtues in children. Consider the influence of Jijabai, who instilled lessons of modesty, truthfulness, and courage in her son Shivaji through tales and lullabies. Such anecdotes underscore the enduring impact of storytelling on moral development.
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As we delve deeper into the world of storytelling, it's crucial to explore the diverse ways in which narratives can shape values and perceptions. Beyond merely imparting moral lessons, stories have the potential to foster empathy, resilience, and critical thinking skills in children. Consider the impact of folktales and fables, which have transcended generations, imparting timeless wisdom and moral teachings.
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From Aesop's fables to Panchatantra tales, these stories have served as moral compasses, guiding children through life's myriad challenges. Moreover, contemporary literature and media offer a plethora of narratives that resonate with children's experiences and emotions. Through relatable characters and compelling plots, children can glean valuable insights into the complexities of human nature and societal dynamics.
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In today's fast-paced world, the importance of emotional literacy cannot be overstated. As Khyati Adlakha, founder of IFORHER.com, aptly observes, "Parenting has never been easy, and it's way tougher now. Teaching values to children works better through interesting stories than just telling them what to do." In an era where emotional intelligence is paramount, stories serve as invaluable tools for nurturing empathy, resilience, and self-awareness.
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Echoing these sentiments, Aekta Chanda, an educationist and emotional learning expert, emphasizes the pivotal role of stories in fostering social and emotional development in children. "In this 21st-century world, the importance of emotional literacy has become vital for the growth and development of children. And stories are the key drivers in the mission of enriching children's world for better social and emotional development."
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In essence, storytelling transcends mere entertainment; it serves as a conduit for moral guidance, emotional enrichment, and character development. As parents, educators, and storytellers, let us harness the power of stories to cultivate a generation of compassionate, resilient, and morally upright individuals.
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In doing so, we not only shape the future of our children but also pave the way for a more compassionate and empathetic society. For in the hearts and minds of our children lies the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
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Delving further into the tapestry of storytelling, it becomes evident that narratives possess a profound capacity to shape values and perceptions. Beyond the mere conveyance of moral lessons, stories have the potential to foster empathy, resilience, and critical thinking skills in children.
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Consider the enduring impact of folktales and fables, which have transcended generations, imparting timeless wisdom and moral teachings. From Aesop's fables to Panchatantra tales, these narratives serve as moral compasses, guiding children through life's myriad challenges.
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Moreover, contemporary literature and media offer a rich tapestry of narratives that resonate with children's experiences and emotions. Through relatable characters and compelling plots, children gain valuable insights into the complexities of human nature and societal dynamics.
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Incorporating diverse perspectives and voices in storytelling further enriches the learning experience for children. Exposure to narratives from different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences fosters empathy and promotes a deeper understanding of the world around them.
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Educators and parents play a pivotal role in curating storytelling experiences that promote values-based learning. By selecting age-appropriate stories that address themes of kindness, resilience, and inclusivity, they create a nurturing environment conducive to moral development.
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Interactive storytelling activities, such as group discussions and role-playing exercises, encourage children to reflect on the moral dilemmas presented in narratives and explore alternative solutions. Through these engaging experiences, children not only internalize moral values but also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
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In the digital age, technology offers innovative platforms for storytelling, ranging from interactive e-books to animated videos. While embracing technological advancements, it's essential to maintain the essence of storytelling – the human connection and emotional resonance that transcend screens and devices.
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As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of education and parenting, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to nurturing values-based learning through storytelling. For in the tales we tell and the lessons we impart, we sow the seeds of compassion, resilience, and empathy in the hearts and minds of our children, shaping the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow.
~ Devanshi Joshi-
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Author | Founder, Pragna Education |Former Journalist | Educator | Soft Skills Master Trainer | Content Creator | Storyteller | Podcast Host
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About author : Devanshi Joshi is a dynamic professional with over 15 years of enriching experience in the field of media and communication. She holds a Master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from the M.S. University of Baroda. She is the author of the book Young Hearts, Wise Minds. Devanshi is a storyteller, podcast host, anchor and facilitator for numerous events and conducts workshops catering to both children and adults.
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Alongside her roles as the founder of Pragna Education, she has been associated with NIST (National Institute of Skills Training), conducting sessions on communication skills and stress management.
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Devanshi’s interests extend beyond her professional pursuits; she finds joy in traveling, writing, reading, and engaging in meaningful discussions.
When young hearts read Young Hearts, Wise Minds
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