The 'nature versus nurture' debate is as old as the hills: with the most eminent minds from Socrates to Galton to Judith Harris finding themselves on either side of the fence. While it is increasingly clear today from modern science that nature contributes to whom one is, as an educationist, I have found that it is nurture that plays a defining role in shaping one's personality, outlook and moral fiber. As Plato put it so succinctly, 'Good nurture and education implant good constitutions.'

The heavy duty of nurturing a young individual falls not only on his parents and teachers but on society as a whole. Our attitudes, beliefs and expectations stem from our experiences in our formative years. Children are extremely perceptive and respond much more to what they experience than what they are merely taught. Nurturing our children thus transcends mere sermons: it is essentially helping them imbibe good values, allowing them to understand the differences between right and wrong and facilitating their pursuit of happiness. The proof of good nurture lies in a strong moral compass that shows one the way in the bleakest of times when one is faced with the toughest of choices.

These tough choices are becoming increasingly commonplace in our lives and our response shapes not only our own destiny but also that of society. If as a people, we seek to rise up to the sunlit uplands of a joyful and righteous living, we must seek to nurture and bring out the best in our children today, so as to give them the wings to fly high and roots to be grounded. It is a wonderful gift that each of us has - the ability to transform the lives of others and help them find peace within themselves at all times.