In honour of Parents’ Day, I’d like to share a few lessons my mum and dad have deliberately, or unconsciously imparted to me over the past 31+ years.
1. Family is an extremely important asset which is not to be taken for granted. The analogy my dad uses is one of a Nigerian broom, which is made up of multiple palm stalks bound together. One stalk by itself is easily snapped, but try snapping the entire broom. Pretty much impossible, unless you unravel the material used to bind the stalks together.
2. Money… it’s JUST money. Save it (mummy), spend it (daddy), but never allow it dictate too many of your goals, take up too much space in your mind, affect any of your relationships, or be the standard by which you measure your success.
3. Words are like toothpaste, once you say them, there is no way of taking them back.
4. Don’t walk around like you have the world on your shoulders. Life is never that serious. When faced with less than ideal circumstances, you can choose your attitude. Choose to be happy.
5. If those closest to you can’t correct you because they are afraid of your reaction, be sure that no one else will.
6. Always take an opportunity that comes your way… the very worst they can say is “no”, and that won’t kill you. Previous article on this piece of advice here.
7. Don’t entertain gossip. I have never heard my parents say something about someone, they haven’t already said in front of them.
8. Be your spouse’s best friend. Daddy’s favourite topic of discussion is Mummy. When we call him, within the first 2 minutes (if that), he is already talking about something she said or did. I don’t think he even realizes he is doing it! Also, try walking past their bedroom at 5am, they are gisting and laughing away, about goodness knows what.
9. Be a united front in your marriage, and let everyone (including your children) be aware of this. You know how there is often one parent that kids go to when they want something? Not so in our household. Conversations such as this one were quite common:
“Mummy, can we go to so so and so’s party?”
“Ask your daddy.”
“Daddy, can we go to so so and so’s party?
“What did your mummy say?”
10. Never be too proud or ashamed to ask for help. The person you are asking may give you a funny look, or rain insults upon you. They may even tell the whole world your problem. However once they have imparted the knowledge or the solution, it can never be taken away from you.
My parents are one of the biggest blessings God has given to me, and I am forever thankful for them! Happy Father’s/Parents’ Day!
Love,
y.
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