By Bagidi Latifah
These days a lot of imposition and military transition has been happening in our various homes. In fact, some people fear their parents more than men in khaki. Many adults do not have a say, neither do they have a way. The only way they have is their mini-gods (parent) owns– whose wills must be fulfilled and their sayings must be appeased. One will not be wrong that many children are leaving their parent live; while tracking their careers. Not and never theirs.
This ranges from social life, academic and partner to end with. I asked, Is love war?
No doubt, we all know that parents want the best for their children— give them the best life: the best education and a peaceful way. However, it is a bit complicated when it comes to deciding what is best for their career and education– what to do and what ‘must’ become.
Nowadays, many students are unable to provide a specific response when asked why they selected a particular course they are studying at the university. The majority of them will say– “Because Mama told me to.” Or rather, “papa, imposed it on me or was imposed to do that.” This situation really needs a second thought from the children. An adult should know what they want and should be allowed to go for it. This will beautify their future.
Albert Einstein said, ” Education is not the learning of facts, it’s rather the training of the mind to think ”. So why choose a career for one’s son and daughter, let them have a say.
As a parent, we should stop dictating a life and career for our children. We might not be part of it while they are living it; and if anything goes wrong, it might be as a result of our military attitudes towards their career. Parental role is to guide and not to dictate.
And to everyone, we should not allow our parents to choose a career for us. One can be guided but not be forced to take a course against one’s vision. As once said by Nelson Mandela: ” Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world,” he and his likes did not say Medicine or Law is the most powerful weapon but education. The course you choose should be what you can do and through which you can succeed and be impactful. This is the only way to find solace and be fulfilled.
Lest I forget, this piece is not in any way preaching disrespecting to one’s parents. In fact, to them they see it as best for you. You should discuss the issue with them and let them know why you are going into a particular field of study.