I WOULD like to share an inspiring anecdote shared by an admirable public servant. She asked my colleague which among the two children grew up to be a better person, the one provided with the milk, or the one given a teddy bear. Of course, our initial answer will have to be the one given the milk because we all know and believe that milk is one of the most important things a child needs to survive. However, the official said that the answer to her question is indeed the other child who was given a teddy bear. Why so, you must ask.
It is because in the story, the milk symbolizes the basic necessities provided by parents to their children such as food, clothing, shelter, and schooling. On the other hand, the teddy bear symbolizes the love, attention, and guidance that parents ought to give to their children. It is true that we parents strive hard to be able to give the best to their children, but it is more important for us to also spend time with our kids.
Our son Lance has been dreaming all his life to visit a zoo. With all our family trips cancelled since last year, we finally had the opportunity to give in to his wish as we celebrated his birthday last Monday. Luckily, we got the green light when the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases Resolutions or IATF allowed kids aged 5 years and up to go to parks, playgrounds, outdoor tourist sites, outdoor non-contact sports courts, and al fresco dining with their parents or guardians. So in an instant, thanks to online technology, I was able to purchase tickets for Zoobic Park and booked a hotel within Olongapo City.
While we were touring the zoo, I can sense the amazement and enjoyment of my kids, and that for me is really priceless. I remember when we were kids, my cousins and I also were brought to the Manila Zoo, and that experience is an unforgettable one. It is true that we want our kids to experience what we have enjoyed, even making it even better for them. I know that these trips and quality time spent with them will be part of their treasured childhood memories.
After our adventurous time at the zoo where we had close encounters with lions and tigers, we headed to a beachfront hotel where our kids had a good time swimming in the pool. We also took the time to visit the beach and play with the sand. The four of us shared a king-seized bed and while we felt a bit uncomfortable, we had to relish the feeling because sooner or later, our kids will grow older and will have their own choices than being with us their parents.
The moral of the story I think is that, we have to balance everything. While we work hard to earn a living and give our children a comfortable life, we also should make time to be with them and build many good memories which they would surely cherish even when they become adults like us.