Beyond Lectures: How Values are Caught, Not Taught

In today's world, where information is readily available, we often focus on teaching values to our children and students. But what if the key to building a strong moral compass lies not just in lectures, but in how we catch them?

Think about it: how impactful is being told not to lie when you witness a parent fibbing on the phone? Children (and adults!) learn more from our actions than our words. We subconsciously absorb the values we see modeled around us.

Recently, while reading the book "Daivathinte Charanmar" by Joseph Annamkutty Jose, I was particularly struck by the chapter titled "Vazhivelakku" (meaning "guiding light"). The author's exploration of how values are best transmitted through lived experience resonated deeply. It's a simple truth, often acknowledged but easily forgotten.

The beauty lies not in being told to be kind, but in witnessing kindness in action, one act after another. This is how values become ingrained – through repeated exposure and positive reinforcement.

Values are not just learned, they are caught. By consciously embodying the values we want to instill, we create a powerful environment for positive development. So, let's move beyond simply telling; let's strive to be living examples of the values we hold dear.

Let's continue the conversation! Share your thoughts on how we can better "catch" values in the comments below.