In many cultures, a son holds an important position within the family due to traditional expectations regarding inheritance, financial support, and continuing the family name. Sons are often seen as having a greater responsibility for the care of aging parents and for upholding family values and traditions. But not all of them succeed in glorifying the family name. Very few able to take the legacy ahead ans make a statement in the society. Sanskrit transcript has following to say :
एकेनापि सुबृक्षेण पुष्पितेन सुगन्धिना
वासितं तद् वनम् सर्वं सुपुत्रेण कुलं यथा .
Ekenaapi subrukshena pushpiten sugandhina
Vaasitam tad vane sarvam suputrena kulam yathaa.
Ekenaapi = even a single.
Su = good.
Bruksha = tree.
Pushpiten = flowering.
Sugandhina = by the fragrance.
Vaasitam = exists, lives.
Tad = that.
Vanam = forest.
Su-putrena = by an illustrious and noble son.
Kulam = family, clan.
Yatha = just like.
i.e. Even a single flowering tree of good quality fills the entire forest by the fragrance of its flowers, just like a single illustrious and noble son glorifying the family to which he belongs.
A son can glorify his family by consistently demonstrating respect, love, and support, and by making positive contributions that reflect well on the family's values and reputation. There are various ways through which a son could make this possible.
- Respect and Love:
Showing respect for parents, siblings, and other family members is paramount. This includes listening to their concerns, communicating openly and honestly, and being supportive during difficult times.
- Upholding Family Values:
Understanding and embracing family values, traditions, and cultural norms is crucial. Participating in family rituals, celebrations, and community events demonstrates a commitment to the family's identity.
- Positive Contribution:
Striving for personal and professional success can bring positive attention to the family. This includes pursuing education, developing a strong work ethic, and demonstrating integrity in all endeavors.
- Active Participation:
Participating actively in family life, whether through household chores, helping with family projects, or simply being present and engaged, demonstrates a willingness to contribute to the well-being of the family.
- Setting a Good Example:
By living a life of integrity, kindness, and responsibility, a son can inspire other family members to be their best selves. This also includes avoiding behaviors that could bring shame or negativity to the family.
Daughters are never considered for this role, which often made me upset.
