Makara Sankranthi: Harvesting Life's Lessons for Abundance and Growth
As kites color the sky and the smell of sweet sesame treats fills the air, Makara Sankranthi brings joy and lessons for a fulfilling life. This Indian festival, marking the Sun's shift into Capricorn, teaches us timeless wisdom. Let's explore how these lessons can help us harvest the best from life.
Lesson 1: Embrace Change: Makara Sankranthi marks the change of seasons, symbolizing the inevitability of change in our lives. I moved back to India twice, first from the US and then from the UK, primarily to be with my aged parents. While the decision helped me to be closer to my roots, it also forced me to adapt to a different work life.
Lesson 2: Aim High: The tradition of flying kites during Sankranthi isn't just a playful activity; it's a metaphor for reaching new heights. Just as a kite soars against the wind, we too should aim high, overcoming obstacles and challenges. My move back to India wasn't just for my benefit; it was an opportunity for my kids to experience the rich traditions and social fabric during Indian festivals. It was about aiming high, not only to give the sense of family bonding to my parents, but also in providing my children with a culturally enriching environment.
Lesson 3: Nourish Relationships: The exchange of sweets - Ariselu (made from jaggery syrup, rice flour, green cardamom, ghee and garnished with sesame seeds) during Makara Sankranthi symbolizes the sweetness of relationships. The festival reminds us to value and nurture the people in our lives, for they add the sweetness that makes our journey meaningful. Being closer to my parents wasn't just about physical proximity; it was about cherishing and nourishing the relationships that are often the cornerstone of our lives. The festival season became a time to strengthen these bonds.
Lesson 4: Be Patient for Rewards: As farmers patiently wait for their crops, life demands patience for our efforts to bear fruit. Keep working towards your goals, and success will come in time. The move back to India was a patient investment in the future, both for myself and my family. It required trust in the process and perseverance, much like the farmer's wait for a bountiful harvest.
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Lesson 5: Celebrate Differences: Makara Sankranthi is celebrated with diverse customs across India, showcasing the beauty in diversity. It encourages us to appreciate our differences and come together in unity. My kids, through their exposure to Indian festivals, learned to celebrate and appreciate the diversity of cultures. It became an invaluable life lesson, fostering a sense of unity despite differences.
Conclusion: As we partake in the festivities of Makara Sankranthi, let's not just revel in the joy but also absorb the profound lessons it imparts. Embrace change, aim high, nourish relationships, be patient, and celebrate diversity. May the spirit of Makara Sankranthi, enriched by personal experiences, guide us to harvest the best from life. Wishing you all a joyful and fulfilling Makara Sankranthi!