What is something others do that sparks your admiration?
The piece reflects on the admiration for one’s motherland over other beautiful places. It emphasises that love for a country transcends mere attachment. It contrasts patriotism with jingoism, advocating for responsible citizenship that includes duties and environmental conservation. The essence of service to humanity is the ultimate reward.
Table of contents
Key Takeaways
- The article explores the concept of patriotism compared to jingoism, arguing that true love for one’s country is responsible and not excessive.
- It discusses the beauty of the motherland and emphasizes the nurturing role it plays in people’s lives.
- Citizens have a collective responsibility to contribute to their country’s welfare through committed service and active participation.
- Environmental conservation, dedicated service, and addressing corruption are vital for a prosperous nation.
- Ultimately, serving humanity leads to a happier society, which in turn strengthens the nation.
Beautiful Lanka
Ravana was dead, and Lanka had fallen. Standing silently on a jutting rock, Rama was watching the majestic Lanka, once the abode of Ravana. He was admiring its beauty, grace and grandeur. Kuber established and constructed the beautiful and prosperous kingdom of Lanka. It was an organised state, beautifully made up of gold. Kuber and Ravana were brothers. Ravana, powerful and undefeatable, intimidated Kuber to accept his sect, declare Ravana’s subjugation and leave the throne. Kuber had no choice but to accept Ravana’s will and hand over his kingdom of Lanka to Ravana.
Looking at his elder brother admiringly watching Lanka, Laxmana praised its beauty. Rama told his younger brother that Lanka was assuredly beautiful, but their motherland, Ayodhya, was more attractive. O Laxman, dear! Mother and motherland are, above all, more beautiful than heaven. “Janani Janmabhumishch Swargadapi Gariyasi”. Rama said.
Mother and motherland
The land where one was born, played in its soil and grew old is none but the holy motherland. It gives food and shelter and quenches thirst with her sweet waters. Like a mother who gives birth, nurses with her milk, and takes care of and protects from evil forces. The motherland nourishes and takes care of.
(1) What is a country?
A question is often asked: What is a country? A country is not merely a demarcated landmass of rivers, forests, and mountains. It is defined by its borders and governance, yet animated by the people who inhabit it. Their traditions, culture, and civilisation give the country its unique identity. While the land provides roots, it is the collective spirit of its citizens that transforms territory into a nation. For many, the birthplace holds a meaning deeper than beauty itself—it anchors them to heritage and ancestry.
Jingoism is an excessive mindset. It is fueled by the wish to fulfil ambitions. In contrast, patriotism is a profound and innate sentiment.
(2) Patriotism vs Jingoism
The love for the motherland is often dismissed as jingoism. It is impertinent. Love is organic. It sprouts within the heart and grows with time. (The Times of India)
(2.1) Patriotism
Loving motherland is often termed as patriotism. It believes in peaceful coexistence, not chauvinism or ultranationalism. A patriot embraces a comprehensive perspective that does not seek to stand out. The view that every citizen is part of a larger community occupies an omphalos position of patriotism. A patriot is ready to serve, can sacrifice their life in the service of the motherland. Thus, patriotism and jingoism are different. Equating or comparing them is improper.
(2.2) Jingoism
Jingoism is an excessive mindset. It is an extreme form of nationalism, fueled by the wish to fulfil ambitions. In contrast, patriotism is a profound and innate sentiment. Equating the two is a delusion. Jingoist portrays themselves as the exclusive lover and defender of their nation. A jingoist is often driven by greed and craving.
Service of a patriot
A soldier who stands guard on the frontier in the most treacherous situations is not a jingoist. His compatriots are safe and enjoying themselves because he is at the frontiers, standing firm, facing all odds. He is not saving and protecting all the fellow countrymen. Not only from external aggression, but he also becomes an angel during natural disasters and calamities. He is more than just a soldier; he is a saviour and a steadfast protector. He battles typhoons, confronts avalanches, and manages both droughts and floods. Undeterred by challenges, their sincere commitment to serving the country makes them truly exceptional.
Collective responsibility is patriotism
Every citizen is equally responsible for the welfare and development of a country. A citizen enjoys perks and privileges, inherently bestowed on him by virtue of being a citizen. Besides enjoying rights, every citizen has duties too. Every family member collectively makes an effort to protect and strengthen the family. Similarly, each person must protect, strengthen, and contribute to the country’s prosperity.
(1) Contributions
It does not need extra effort. Performing diligent and committed duty is enough. Citizens should pay taxes promptly. They must adhere to the law of the land. Maintaining cleanliness and protecting natural wealth are essential. This includes water and physical features. These are just a few important things that need to be taken care of.
(2) Choosing representatives
In a democratic country, governments are formed from among the elected representatives. The representatives are elected on the basis of people’s vote. Citizens need to see that they carefully choose their representatives. Choosing diligent representatives who are sensitive to people’s problems is important. Voting power is very powerful and judicious use of this power is crux of human welfare. Identifying black sheep is very necessary. The ultimate beneficiaries are the citizens. Happy and prosperous citizens show the power of a nation.
(2.1) Utilisation of public fund
The public money collected from taxes is used to create assets for the prosperity of the country. To guarantee proper utilisation of public money, a law has been made. Various agencies act as watchdogs and make sure to punish delinquents as per the law. A good government ensures that every penny of people’s hard-earned money is utilised properly for wealth creation and people’s welfare.
(2.2) Infrastructure development
Funds must be properly utilised for the development of the country. Maintaining quality in the work, the misappropriation of funds and bungling must be strictly plugged. In the current scenario, defence is a priority sector. Defence preparedness is very important. Development of infrastructure and self-sufficiency is vital for a strong nation.
(2.3) Dealing with corruption
An honest effort and practice guarantee proper utilisation of public funds. It was shameful. A former PM of the country had to confess the corruption. They also had to admit the loopholes of the framework. and to strengthen the infrastructure and defence requirements. Corruption has no place in a country. It acts as a white ant which gnaws and destroys. The pest of corruption needs to be dealt with iron hands.
Forests, wildlife and environment
Forests, wildlife and environmental conservation are the areas that need careful consideration. The industries, business activities and transport sector have to be eco-friendly. A polluted environment is a serious threat to health. Everyone needs to be environmentally conscious and friendly. Tree plantations and conserving existing forests, lakes, ponds and rivers are necessary. Those who work for it are green soldiers, a watchdog of green cover. People working for the emancipation of the country are praiseworthy.
Happy people, happy nation
People long for a better quality of life, a decent house, better education for their children and modern healthcare facilities. Serving people is serving the nation. A country has to have committed leadership and dedicated workers. The collective work brings happiness to the lives of people, especially those standing at the last of the line. The grin on the face of a satisfied person, family, or society brings happiness to the country. It gives immense joy to everyone of us. This is the greatest reward of self-satisfaction. It does not need anyone’s admiration.
Serving humanity
Serving humanity, ignoring negativity is a great service. The committed leadership backed up with people’s support gives positive results. The right leadership is like a helping hand. It uplifts people. Corrupt and inefficient leadership ruins the country. It leads the country to doom by fragmenting society for their parochial gains.
May all be happy and healthy
Actions that spark admiration go beyond family, relatives, or friends. Mutual cooperation and help are essential. Selfish motives are harmful. A broad outlook with the motive of broad public welfare is widely appreciated. Honest effort and behaviour are essential for the prosperity of all. It is what sagacious sages also expressed in “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramayah…” (May all be happy and healthy).
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