In life there are numerous people who truly deserve our gratitude. For, many have been the hands that have joined in moulding our present. The Indian scriptures remind us, 'Matru Devo Bhava, Pitru Devo Bhava, Acharya Devo Bhava' - One owes respect to one's mother, father and teacher in the order mentioned; and above all God of course, for it says give respect by treating them like God.

Most of us individuals have ample opportunities to show gratitude to our parents. We live our entire life with them and have scope for filling their lives with joy for all they have done for us. But what about our teachers? We meet many of them through the journey of life. Some touch our lives in ways we cannot describe or even comprehend. Some do it so silently that years pass before we realise they did, like the fragrance of a rose garden that often comes to us only after we have walked past it.

Bhagawan would often insist we be grateful to God for all that He has given us. But why, one wonders! Doesn't God do whatever He does selflessly, then why does He seek our gratitude?

The answer is simple - gratitude is a noble virtue to possess, and Bhagawan wishes we all be virtuous enough to be grateful. Most of the inspiring teachers we encounter in life too neither had the time nor desire for our gratitude, but each one of you will agree that saying that thanks, even if it is in the silence of our hearts, makes us feel so warm and happy.

So, why not we express our love to those teachers on this occasion of Guru Poornima? You do it the way it gives you joy - poem, audio message, a picture or just a few heartfelt words - we will share it with the rest of the world.

Who knows, after all your teacher might see your message and with a twinkle in his or her eye, and remember you with fondness. It could be anybody - your Bal Vikas guru, your swimming instructor, your kindergarten teacher or even someone you look up to as a teacher - but someone who has touched your life in a way that is very special and taught you an indelible lesson of life. Make your Guru Poornima special, by remembering that one special teacher.