Every September 5, India celebrates Teachers' Day to showcase our respect for the people who teach us, a tradition that began with one teacher’s modest request. When Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s students wanted to celebrate his birthday, the philosopher and former President suggested that the day instead be observed as a day to celebrate teachers, turning a personal occasion into a tribute to those who devote their lives to helping others learn.

But some of the most lasting lessons do not come from a classroom. They come from people who teach us to dream beyond our circumstances, question what we believe, find purpose in our lives, and remain curious about the world around us.