parents

I admire people who value their parenthood. i admire people who do not just enter parenthood because they were led to being parents, but because they themselves wanted to be parents no matter what it takes. i admire people who bring parenthood to a high pedestal, such that being parents themselves is already a priceless treasure.

with the recent issue on contraceptive and family planning going around, i can't help but be saddened by the fact that there are still a lot of those who wish to limit their parenthood to mere obligation and within their selfish wants. Of course, smart parenting requires that you plan your family, and that you ensure each child is given what he/she needs. But of course, smart parenting requires, as well, that sacrifices have to be made in little things and in big things. at the end of all arguments, it's a matter of how one is willing to love and deny oneself.

a little girl to her friend:

girl: she's my mom (referring to her yaya)
friend: but she's not your mom, she's your yaya. where's your real mom?
girl: mommy's working so we get to go to hongkong every weekend.

sometimes we are led to think that to be a good parent is to give all the material wants of the children --- that the love of a parent can be measured by how many trips and dolls you are able to give to your child. but when asked what your child's favorite color is, you couldn't even answer a guess.

yes, we need to save money for the child's future. but what future are you trying to paint for your child? think of how much love you will be able to give beyond what money can buy. think of how much love your child really needs, beyond what you thought trips to London could give her.

More than valuing money for your child, maybe you could teach your child to value money. more than taking your time to build the future of your child, maybe you could spend time with your child to know what future she wants for herself.

how much love can you give to your child? how much are you willing to sacrifice for your child?