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By Gabriel Sebastian
It was a hot sunny Saturday afternoon. My wife and I walked up the steps and through the small side gate that led us to the curved concrete path inside the school. We walked down the path to the lift on the ground floor of one of the blocks. We reached the fifth level and a student showed us the Band room where the concert was held.
Our daughter, Monica, a secondary one student, had reminded us that we should come and watch the concert. She said proudly that we can see the band in action, especially the budding juniors.
So there we were in the band room with other parents, the other students at the four secondary levels and the music teachers. The school music director told us that the first part will feature the secondary one students playing the instruments that they learned over the past eight months, after which there will be an interval and then the second part will feature the secondary two, three and four students teaming up as groups to take part in a competition. Applause after applause followed as the young performers showcased their talents. Our spirits were uplifted by the delightful music from the young amateurs and no less by our pride that our children were in the school band.
We eagerly waited for Monica to perform her piece. She played the glockenspiel. It was short and sweet. When she had made her debut, we heaved a sigh and relaxed. We did it right by letting her join the school band. Then we realised that what is even more important is that we sat in the room and watched Monica and her schoolmates perform.
Yes. Isn't that what it means to be a bulwark for our children? As parents, these are the times when we show our support for our children as they take on the challenging role as students. We send the right signals that we are concerned and appreciative of their efforts not only in academic pursuits but also in the lighter aspects of education. It is also gives parents a chance to mix with their daughters' peers and teachers. Somehow there is a feeling of camaraderie among all of us.
Schools are also aware of the busy schedules of parents. Therefore, they hold such events as school concert, arts festival, etc during evening hours or at weekends. Schools thus welcome parents to come and spend their time with their children and teachers in their schools. Consequently, parents are encouraged to participate in such events. Don't give it a miss, they say.
Love can be expressed in many ways. This perhaps is one of the ways. It builds a strong bond between the parent and the child. Such a strong bond can help our children to overcome crises that they may face later in their lives. Psychologically, the students feel better. It is true that sometimes our children fail to recognize our support. Let us persevere. One day, they will remember, especially when they become parents themselves. |
