A THOUGHT AND A STORY
Out of all the messages I received today on social media from my students, friends, and colleagues on the occasion of Teacher’s Day, one particularly stayed with me:
> Once Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was asked,
"What’s the difference between a Station Master and a School Master?"
He replied,
“One minds the trains, and the other trains the minds.”
What a profound truth, beautifully expressed by a great teacher, philosopher, and statesman.
This reminded me of a story I had once read — one that deeply resonates with the true essence of teaching.
The Right Teaching
Once upon a time, there lived a revered monk in a beautiful monastery nestled in the hills. He was known far and wide for his wisdom and compassion, and many of his students went on to become great teachers themselves.
One day, a student was caught stealing from his peers. The others reported the incident to the head monk, expecting the boy to be punished. But the teacher took no action.
A few days later, the same boy was caught stealing again. Still, the teacher said nothing. This time, the rest of the students were outraged. They signed a petition demanding the dismissal of the boy. If not, they declared, they would all leave the monastery.
The monk called a meeting. When all the students had gathered, he addressed them calmly:
“You are good boys. You understand the difference between right and wrong. If you choose to leave, you will easily find another teacher or school.
But what about your brother who doesn’t yet know what is right? If I don’t guide him, who will?
I cannot let him go—even if it means losing all of you.”
Hearing these words, the boy who had stolen broke down in tears. That moment changed him forever. He never stole again, and in time, he became known for his honesty and integrity.
To Teach Is to Touch a Life Forever
Sometimes it happens through words,
Sometimes through actions,
Sometimes through gentle correction,
And sometimes by simply being the example.
This is the power of a teacher.
Not just to inform minds — but to transform lives.
