My belief before venturing into parenthood is to give my children the best I could give, take away all challenges on their way, provide the necessary, make life easy for them with so much discipline intact, and also invest in them so that I can a have a piece of mind in my old age. However, to achieve this, I must cut my cloth according to the materials I have on the ground. I don't want many children that I won't be able to care for and eventually make them suffer as a result of my irresponsibility.
Reflecting on my childhood experiences, I realize how challenging it was growing up, especially after losing my father. I had to hustle to make ends meet, working multiple jobs, including working at a beer parlor which was the most difficult aspect of my life as a young teenage girl, I did this to support my education and daily living. Those struggles shaped me, but I wouldn't wish them on my children.
As a parent, I want to shield my kids from similar hardships. I'll invest in their well-being, provide for their needs, and instill discipline from a young age. Some parents believe that sending their children to public schools, as they also went to public schools will teach them resilience. However, I disagree. Why put them through unnecessary struggles when I can provide a better education and environment?
In Nigeria's current economic climate, many children are forced to hawk goods or work instead of attending school. This exposure to hardship at a young age can have long-term effects. It is a thing of shame to see learned individuals having the fixed mindset of allowing their children to go through a lot just because they also went through challenges and overcame them. Please, have a change of mindset. The world is no longer safe for our children because we refuse to do the right thing. Change the narrative of exposing these young ones to the journey of overcoming challenges while you can provide for them.
Investing in your children isn't about spoiling them; it's about giving them access to quality resources and opportunities. I'll ensure my kids receive the best possible education, without the difficulties I faced. There's nothing wrong in giving them a good life but don't overdo because some parents are the genesis of their children's problems. Everything should be modest and reasonable. I want my children to have a secure, supportive upbringing, free from unnecessary struggles and worries.
Inculcating discipline and responsibility in my children will prepare them for life's challenges. I won't let them suffer unnecessarily, but will instead provide a nurturing environment that fosters growth and success. If I have the opportunity, I will send my children abroad to study, put them in good schools where they have access to a full term technology. I only need to monitor, teach and put them in the right way to go in life, and never go astray.
"I pray my husband and I live longer in good health and wealth for us to nurture our children to our satisfaction"
SUFFERING IS A DISEASE!
My writing is in response to the #hivelearners second edition prompt.
Thank you for your time, beautiful friends 💕