Let them fly to their destiny.

It is sad when parents who truly love their children cannot get themselves to allow their children to lead their own lives.

I once taught in a secondary school in Kota Kuala Muda in Southern Kedah. It was there that I had a very bright student who was always very positive about school work and life. Her work was excellent. Of course, she was this teacher’s pet.
She did very well in her form five examination and looked forward to furthering her studies in another town. Upon hearing that, i encouraged her.

Unfortunately, her parents, who had two sons and one daughter, did not wish her to leave home. Their two elder sons have gone overseas for further studies. Naturally, they missed their two sons. There were times they believed they should not have let them go away. The father and mother did not want their only girl to leave them too.

I went to persuade them to give their daughter the opportunity to improve herself and find her own future. They told me they would be lonely without the daughter. Of course, they were right to think of the fate that would be theirs should she go away. However, their wedded partner was still around. It should not be too lonely. Furthermore, was it right to restrict the daughter’s success? She had her life to lead. It would mean the end of her education and other opportunities.

Should parents be so selfish? Is it the right kind of love? Have they ever really thought of what the rest of their daugther's life would be like after that?

Just like us, each and every child has his/her own future and life to look forwad to.

There comes a time when parents must allow their children to venture wherever their destiny summons. Of course, it is painful to not be able to have our loved ones near, possibly not see them as often or to look after them anymore. However, it is the greatest love of all to care enough to sacrifice ourselves to ensure the happiness and success of the ones we love and care for. With the care, where is the love?

When the time comes, are we able to release the hold on our children so that they can reach out towards their destiny? How generous are we with our love?