As I started parenting, I realised there is no formula to it.

Hearken, O children of generations yet to awaken, and attend to the words of Sonali Bendre, whose voice carries the clarity of experience: “As I started parenting, I realised there is no formula to it.” In these simple words lies a profound truth as ancient as the first acts of nurturing: that the raising of children is not governed by rigid rules or universal prescriptions, but by presence, reflection, and the delicate responsiveness of the heart. Parenting, like life itself, is an art, ever unfolding, shaped by circumstance, temperament, and love.

The origin of this reflection rests in Bendre’s own life as a mother, where the journey of care revealed the limitations of guidance found in books, advice, or societal expectation. She discovered that each child is unique, each day unpredictable, and each challenge demanding insight, patience, and courage. From this lived wisdom emerges a lesson older than written word: that intuition, reflection, and adaptability are the truest companions of those entrusted with the shaping of young lives.

The meaning of her words is both practical and moral. To acknowledge that there is no formula is to embrace the uncertainty and imperfection inherent in parenting. Children do not respond uniformly to instruction, nor do circumstances yield to expectation. Instead, the parent must cultivate attentiveness, responsiveness, and discernment, learning through action and reflection, adjusting approach to meet the needs, temperament, and potential of each child. In this recognition lies both humility and empowerment.

Consider the life of Benjamin Franklin, whose guidance of his own children was neither rigid nor formulaic. Franklin adapted to their temperaments, strengths, and weaknesses, teaching through example, conversation, and engagement with the world. His success lay not in adherence to a preordained method, but in the attentive observation and thoughtful guidance that nurtured independence, intellect, and moral character. Bendre’s reflection mirrors this ancient wisdom: parenting is as much an improvisation of the heart as it is a deliberate cultivation of virtue.

Yet Bendre’s words also carry a subtle admonition: the search for a perfect manual or universal formula may obscure the truth that parenting demands presence and engagement, not mere adherence to instructions. The true art lies in observing the child, understanding the moment, and acting with intention, compassion, and insight. Life itself becomes the teacher, offering lessons in patience, empathy, courage, and humility, if only the parent is willing to learn from experience.

The lesson for future generations is radiant: embrace the uniqueness, unpredictability, and imperfection of the journey of raising children. Do not be enslaved to rigid rules or comparisons, but cultivate reflection, adaptability, and patience. Recognize that the child’s development is a living process, shaped by guidance, example, and care, rather than by a preordained formula. Wisdom in parenting arises from experience, reflection, and intentional presence.

In practical life, one may follow Bendre’s counsel by cultivating mindfulness, observation, and responsiveness. Attend to the needs, strengths, and challenges of each child, and adjust guidance accordingly. Record reflections, learn from mistakes, and celebrate successes not as achievements of method, but as expressions of love, care, and insight. Approach each day as an opportunity to adapt, nurture, and grow alongside the child, guided by reflection and empathy.

Thus, O children of future ages, carry this teaching as both lantern and compass: there is no formula to parenting, only the vigilant and compassionate engagement with life and the young. Embrace uncertainty with courage, learn through observation, and guide with love and wisdom. In this sacred art lies the shaping of character, the nurturing of spirit, and the enduring legacy of care that will illuminate generations yet to come.