PATH TO PERFECTION
Swami Vivekananda was an embodiment of compassion and courage. His spirited approach based on the foundation of worldly and spiritual knowledge generated a new consciousness and enthusiasm amongst the youth. His novel idea was to chart a new path for humanity. He kindled a light towards the path to perfection; a slow, but steady journey through an awareness of the worldly entanglements of material pleasures. This path is more adventurous, thrilling, and inspiring than the conquest of external powers. Navigating through the transient illusions, the goal is to attain self-knowledge. Swami ji traversed this route through sincere discipline and showed the youth its validity.
In order to awaken the youth, Swami Vivekananda placed emphasis on holistic development. He focussed on the expansion of one’s spiritual dimension which would lead to the power of the self. Swami ji emphasized on the vital role of education in the making of a human being. Education that promotes a person’s all-round growth: physical, intellectual, emotional, moral, and the spiritual. One that would lead to the development of a strong will-power. This strength would guide one along the right path – to work efficiently and achieve the optimum. A unified balance of courage, will-power and right knowledge would be the guiding light. Hence, he defined education as ‘the manifestation of perfection’.
He addressed the problems of socio-economic disparity. Swami ji was proactive in integrating the logic of Eastern and Western thinkers for a healthy growth. His vision was to effectively utilize the technological developments to bring the masses into the mainstream; hence, bridging the gap between the economic strata. The essence of his ideas takes a positive stance and modern outlook towards education reaching out to the unreached; even the remotest communities.
In today’s scenario, Swami Vivekananda’s vision of inclusive education stands coherently relevant. His life and philosophy are an inspiration for today’s youth and the generations to come.
