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| Sunday, 29 September 2002 |
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Features |  |
| News Business Features Editorial
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Children's day . . . October 1 : they cherish your precious time by Neville Perera (Assistant Medical Practitioner) My grandchildren climb on to my lap. They snuggle close to me and whisper, "I remember what you told me, Seeya." These words bring a warm assurance to my heart. As a grandfather, I have decided to be a good influence to them. I give them books to read, puzzles to work out during their leisure time, lovely presents and what not and relate stories when they go to bed at night. You don't have to be a grandparent to do all this. Just be willing to take a child into your arms and give them or her the best you can. Tell them the message of God's love. God has a great concern for little children. Life certainly was a lot simpler years ago. If a man was a carpenter, his son was likely to be the same. That's because the workshop was at home and the boy worked with his father. Today, vocations are far too complex and the training way too demanding. One aspect of life, however, is the same as it was years ago. Children not only learn how to do things from their father and mother, they also learn about life. They see their parents' value and ethics in action every day in their homes. They have 'little apprentices' watching how they put their beliefs into practice. It goes on at meal time, in the car, in the store, in conversation with or about neighbours - all the time. They may close their ears to advice, but their eyes are always open to example. What do children expect from their parents? I think the most important thing children need is their time. They should spend some moments of laughter with them. They have to provide for their needs and be more understanding. Children expect their parents to love, care and attended to them in times of difficulty and confusion. In this competitive world, parents may be able to satisfy their children by fulfilling their material requirements. But unless they sit down with their children, listen to them and make them feel that they are really available for their children, all the efforts they have taken otherwise would be of no avail. The importance of a father in a child's life is monumental. He is to nurture his children by giving them instructions, protection, companionship, assistance, discipline, good example and above all love and affection. A good father provides a wide-ranging supply of godly advice and wisdom as he guides his children. But a father cannot do it if he ignores his children because he is busy with self-serving activities. Fathers, don't forget your children. They need you! Today, as you have opportunity, step out of your adult world and enter the world of children. Pause to think about and to pray for children you know. Let us welcome the children onto our laps and into our hearts. Let us recognise their value and do what we can to show them our love. Are you spending time with your children, loving them unconditionally, and trying to be understanding? If not, you may be causing them to run into the open arms of those who might meet their needs. Our children are a gift from God, to nurture and to love... Time spent with your children is time wisely invested. Let's help the children. They sit in darkness, though the day shines bright. They need the hope that comes from someone who cares enough to feed, clothe and shelter them with love and kindness. We shape tomorrow's world by what we teach our children today. A parent's life is a child's guidebook. your family can do a lot to help some of these unfortunate children. |
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