'Raise your sons well..you are raising somebody's husband,' Sarwat Gilani advises moms

Renowned actor Sarwat Gilani recently shared a crucial message on Instagram for mothers of boys, urging them to raise their sons with the understanding that they will grow up to be someone's father or husband.

The 'Joyland' actor shared an Instagram post which read, “You're not just raising your son...you are raising somebody's husband and somebody's father…Raise him well.”

She reflected upon the thoughtful message in her caption, “Raising sons involves fostering empathy, teaching respect, encouraging emotional expression, providing positive role models, setting boundaries, nurturing their individuality, and supporting their interests and passions. It’s about instilling values, teaching responsibility, and allowing them to explore and learn while guiding them along the way.”

Gilani stressed the significance of mothers fostering their sons' self-awareness, encouraging them to express vulnerability, establishing meaningful connections, and instilling essential values.

“We need to ask ourselves if we are conscious parents? Conscious parenting involves being present, aware, and intentional in your approach to raising children. It’s about fostering a deep connection, understanding your child’s emotions, needs, and perspectives, and responding to them with empathy and guidance. It often involves self-reflection, continuously learning about parenting, and making mindful choices that align with your values and your child’s well-being,” she observed.

While acknowledging society's influence on boys' perceptions of masculinity as they grow, Gilani urged parents to guide their sons by setting a compassionate example rather than allowing societal expectations to solely define manhood for them.

She furthered on, “Societal norms can impact sons in various ways. Expectations around masculinity, like being tough, suppressing emotions, or avoiding vulnerability, can influence how boys perceive themselves and others. These norms might limit their emotional expression, shape their behavior, or define their interests based on societal standards, affecting their self-image and relationships.

Gilani underscored that the change begins at home, stating that when sons are nurtured with sensitivity, they will be better equipped to understand women, who will play significant in their lives.

“It’s pertinent that as a mother we take it upon ourselves to raise responsible, compassionate and empathetic boys and not have society set examples of what and who they should be. Our young ones will become partners and parents one day InshaAllah, the change we want to see in the world will have to start at home from a very young age and only us as parents can empower our children,” she concluded.