Mother’s Day in May and Father’s Day in June are two occasions that give us the perfect opportunity to reflect on the profound impact our parents have had on our lives. They are not just caregivers but our first teachers, imparting lessons that shape who we become. Their teachings go beyond words, showing us through their actions, sacrifices, and unwavering love. For this article, we reached out to members of the community, asking them to share the most important life lesson they learned from their parents. Their heartfelt stories serve as a tribute to the values, wisdom, and love passed down from one generation to the next. These reflections not only honor our parents but also inspire us to carry forward their teachings in our own lives.
Tarannum Thind
Podcast Host/Producer, Chai with T
Simply by observing my parents, I learned one of the most important lessons: to pursue what you love with passion and humility. Watching them dedicate themselves to the performing arts showed me the power of hard work, staying grounded, and following what inspires you. They never imposed their dreams on my brother and me. They just wholeheartedly believed in ours. That quiet trust gave me the space to discover my own passion for broadcasting and build a career doing what I love.
Pardeep Nagra
Executive Director, Sikh Heritage Museum of Canada
One of the most important roles a parent has is that of a teacher. Yes, as a student, there is book knowledge and memorizing facts, numbers, and formulas, but the lessons and experiences taught by my parents cannot be found anywhere else. Civic engagement is not in books; it is in living it. Seva and selfless service are not about memorization; they are about practicing them. Identity is not about numbers; you must believe and nurture it. Resilience is not formulas; you must have it and overcome hardships and obstacles. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for your teachings and lessons.
Azra Hussain
Interim CEO, Elizabeth Fry Society of Greater Vancouver
My father was the embodiment of selflessness and generosity. He instilled in me confidence, integrity, and the importance of giving back and supporting the community. His values shaped who I am today and continue to guide me. I strive to honor his memory by living with purpose, giving with intention, and upholding the principles he cherished, ensuring that his legacy lives on through my actions and the values I pass forward to my children.
Dr. Pargat Singh Bhurji, MD FRCP(C)
Pediatrician
My parents taught me unconditional love, faith, honesty, and integrity. Their teachings shaped who I am. Despite their absence, their wisdom guides me daily. I grew up in a large joint family, surrounded by values of respect, service, and spirituality. Our home resonated with prayers and Gurbani, instilling faith. My mother, a Partition survivor, and my father, a businessman, showed resilience and grace. Their legacy lives on in me, shaping my values and guiding my journey.
Nisha Khare
Co-Founder of Human Biography & Women of Wonder; Global Storyteller, Speaker & Conscious Healer
My father, Virendar (Vern) Manhas, the first Indian to settle in Prince George, taught me that courage and vision can build new worlds. His legacy lives in the stories I now elevate through Human Biography. My mother, Nimmi (Jaswal), has turned deep loss into presence and joy. She inspires my work with Women of Wonder Global, where women rise through connection and inner power. Their values shaped me—as a storyteller, leader, and healer.
Dr. Sukhmeet Singh Sachal, MD MPH
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Resident
More than just a life lesson, my parents taught me the profound value of seva, the selfless service that lies at the heart of Sikhism. From childhood, they instilled this guiding principle, shaping both my professional pursuits and daily actions. By embodying the saying, "Maan neeva maat uchi," they demonstrated the significance of humility and placing the community's needs above one’s own. Their example inspires me to serve others with compassion and dedication.
Suhana Gill
Political Science Student and Former Women’s Representative at KPU
As a first-generation Canadian, I have witnessed the sacrifices and resilience my parents embodied to build a better life for my brother and me. My mother taught me that true success lies in unwavering dedication, not outcomes, and my father showed me the power of choosing wisdom over emotion. Their strength, love, and light have shaped every part of who I am. I pray they remain my guiding stars in every lifetime—my first teachers, my soulmates.
Parents are our first teachers in every sense of the word. They teach us not just through their words but through their actions, their sacrifices, and their unwavering love. As we celebrate Mother's Day and Father's Day, may we take a moment to reflect on the lessons they have taught us, and may we continue to pass these lessons forward to future generations. Our parents may not always be physically present, but their wisdom and love will always guide us. Their stories are etched in our hearts, and their values become the compass that directs our lives. Let this be a reminder to cherish them, honor their sacrifices, and continue their legacy of love, wisdom, and resilience.
