The greatest gifts you can give your children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence. – Denis Waitley
Our parents… they are like a cauldron that is always willing to receive the hurt caused by fire and be used for cooking to come up with delectable foods. Yes, they are always willing to sacrifice everything and anything just for our own good. No matter how hard the things go, they ignore all the aches and tribulations for us to have the most comfortable life that we ever wanted. That is who our parents are. They do all of this because of one definite reason… and that is LOVE. This four-letter word holds different connotations and links to wider facts which includes “responsibility” and “independence”.
First, responsibility…
As Denis Waitley said, this is one of the greatest gifts that our parents can give. From the time of co-creation until the time of our death, the responsibility to take care of us is already bestowed to them. They co-created us; therefore they should take good care of us. Fortunately, I have my very industrious and affectionate parents. I salute them for not giving up with all the uphill battles. I know that it’s not easy for them to overcome the difficulties of life, yet, they still do it for us, for the three of us. I am very thankful to God for giving such understanding and devoted parents like them. Despite the trials and obstacles, we are still bounded by love and trust. I can’t ask for more. I am very much contented with the sort of family that I have. A hardworking father, a wary mother, and generous sisters who are always willing to lend their hands during the times that I am in need. I give my parents the greatest gratitude for understanding me even there are times that I am stubborn and difficult todeal with. I know that they seriously take their responsibilities for us. In return, when I become a parent, I’ll make sure that I will follow their footsteps. The good example they set serves as my inspiration to become a mother worthy of my children’s love in the future.
Independence…
My parents never decided for myself. They always give me the authority to choose what I really want for my life. In that way, they give me independence. They never forced me to like what I don’t like. They don’t even push me to do what I don’t want to do. That’s how they love me. That kind of love is blended with trust. As they let me do what I love to achieve, they never lack of giving me advice. They are always willing to support me. Most especially, they never get tired of convincing me to understand every situation that I face. My parents are my number one fan! They always put up in my mind all the positive things that I should look forward. I’ve learned that independence is best expressed not with yourself alone, but rather with your family that helps you decide what is better. In that way, the authority is still within you. They just help, last decision will be yours. Independence is still present.
The greatest love that we can receive is the love coming from our parents. A very pure love; a love without any exchange. And with no doubt, their love is the best medicine for us. The most excellent cure in whatever illness we have -- whether it’s about our health or the wounds in our hearts. A simple cuddle from them can relieve so much grief. That’s how powerful their love is!
(A simple essay for the greatness of my parents.)
