Today is Guru Purnima, a tradition I came to appreciate during my many trips to India over the years.
It’s one of my favorite days of the year because it’s dedicated to something we probably don’t do often enough: Stop to thank the people who helped shape who we are.
The word “guru” has taken on different definitions over the years, but its original meaning is much simpler.
A guru is a teacher, a guide, someone who helps you see things you couldn’t see on your own.
None of us gets where we are alone. Every one of us is standing on the shoulders of people who took the time to teach us, challenge us, encourage us, or simply point us in the right direction.
Guru Purnima is a reminder to recognize those people and be grateful for everything they’ve given us.
The Teachers Who Shaped Me
When I think about the markets, I’m reminded how fortunate I’ve been to learn from some of the greatest technicians of all time.
Ralph Acampora, John Murphy, Louise Yamada, John Roque, Jeff deGraaf, Alan Shaw, and Brian Shannon have all influenced the way I think about markets.
Some I’ve had the privilege of learning from personally. Others have taught me through their books, research, charts, and decades of experience.
Each of them has helped me become a better technician and a better investor.
More importantly, they’ve shown me the value of sharing knowledge.
They’ve never treated markets like a secret to protect. Instead, they’ve spent their careers helping others learn.
That’s a gift, and it’s one I’m incredibly thankful for.
It’s Our Turn
One thing I’ve realized as I’ve gotten older is that gratitude compounds. The more experience you gain, the more you appreciate the people who helped you along the way.
Eventually, something changes. You realize it’s your turn to do for someone else what others once did for you. Sometimes that’s answering a question, making an introduction, sharing an idea, or simply taking the time to listen. Those small moments can change the direction of someone’s life or career, even if you never know it.
That’s what Guru Purnima means to me.
It’s a reminder to be thankful for the teachers who made us who we are, and a reminder that we all have the opportunity to become that person for someone else.
So today, I’d simply like to say thank you to everyone who has shared their wisdom, challenged my thinking, opened a door, or helped me see the world a little more clearly.
I’m deeply grateful.
Happy Guru Purnima.
Stay sharp,
JC Parets, CMT
Founder, TrendLabs