Let Children Be Children by Kenny Toh, May 2004

Let them explore and learn on their own, but teach them discipline.

Let them scribble on the wall, but teach them to distinguish freedom of expression from vandalism.

Let them be mischievous, but teach them obedience.

Let them stand up for themselves, but teach them to respect others.

Let them sing their hearts out, but teach them also rhythm and harmony so their voices will be music to the ears.

Let them love themselves, but teach them to love others.

Let them make mistakes, but teach them to learn from the experiences.

Let them speak to strangers, but teach them caution.

Let them stretch their wings, but teach them the physics of flight and the laws gravity; show them their roots, so that they know their way home as they soar in the sky.

Let them climb the mountains, but teach them the importance of having a firm footing.

Let them sail out to the seas, but teach them to harness the winds of nature, to seek guidance from the stars, to respect the wrath of the ocean, and to know that no matter how big our ego is, we are but a droplet in the vast body of water around mother earth.

Let them be inquisitive, but show them also how to acquire knowledge and wisdom.

Let them do things that we might deem silly, but teach them not to call anything or anyone stupid.

Let them play with you, but teach them also to distinguish the time for work from the time for play.

Let them tell lies, but teach them that trust can only be earned, and difficult to regain once lost.

Let them take risks, but teach them also the responsibility to face the consequences.

Let them eat with their hands, but teach them also the handling of cutlery such that they are not lost when table manners are called for.

Let them be independent, but teach them also that man does not exist alone, for even the hermit depends on the universe for food and shelter.

Let them be protective of their toys, but teach them that there lies greater joy when shared with others.

Let them be disappointed with not getting what they want, but teach them that life is also about giving, and not just getting.

Let them be treated unfairly, but teach them that to expect life to be fair would be an unfair demand.

Let them be playful, but show them the thin line between being playful and being annoying.

Let them be children, and let adults learn from them what they have unlearnt in the name of growing up.
 

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