Nuggets of Wisdom

Children learn well when they see their parents live the wisdom that they are teaching them. We want our children to learn from every experience that they pass through in their life’s journey. Thus, they must watch us gain more wisdom as we ourselves face the challenges of life. Following are some of my favorite nuggets of wisdom that I speak to my children and do my best model to them.

You will go through coveting the hip toys, gadgets and branded stuff.  You will soon outgrow these because these are just stuff. You will realize that these stuff do not define you; these stuff are the result of ingenious marketing.

Enjoy every stage of your life. Don’t attempt to grow fast. Stop donning my clothes and shoes; don’t put on my make-up (though it can be funny, at times).  Enjoy your childhood because when you become an adult, tons of responsibilities may weigh you down.  At the moment, enjoy your carefree life.

Friends will come and go, though you feel that they are your everything. Friends may hurt you, but real friends will stick it out with you. So remember it may bruise when they hurt your feelings but those wounds will heal and you'll overcome.

All things will pass away except the word of God. Our children will face problems and frustrations as they grow up and mature. Problems will cause them to feel like it’s the end of the world. Remind them that this too will pass. Everything will get better soon. Remind them to go back to the word of God which tells them that they are loved and God has a perfect plan for them. Help them to turn those problems into challenges so that after their episode in the stormy sea they can spring board to a sunny hill.

Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; it is part of growing up. Mistakes just mean that you are living life. However, make sure that you learn from your every mistake. What is important is that when you fall down, you must rise up and try again till you get it right. Mistakes are part of your experiences and an experience is the best teacher.

Live and love life, warts and all. Never be afraid to love with all your heart. Yes, you may get hurt but you will not know the joys of love till you experience it. Never allow pessimism to consume your existence. Stay positive and embrace both the challenges and blessings that life may throw at you. Everything happens for a reason; today, you may feel sorry because you think what happened will not benefit you. Be optimistic because in the end, all these will make sense. God has a reason for everything; nothing happens at random because He has a plan and purpose in everything.

No matter what, do not give up on your dreams. Dreams are what keep us alive and kicking. Never let anyone or any circumstance cause you to give up your dreams. Dreams are for winners so you should never give up. When you meet a setback, re-evaluate the path you're taking and try things out in a different angle. Go back to your dream, strategize and re-create your plan.

Laughter is still the best medicine. When problems arise, find humor in it. Laughter will relax you and will give you peace of mind which will enable you to come up with solutions to whatever issue you may be facing.

Do not be afraid to speak your mind; every human being is entitled to this speak his mind. You are entitled to a freedom of thought and speech. Do not live in silence as this is not good for your health; speak up if you feel hurt. Be strong and no matter what, be yourself and express your thoughts and feelings. What matters is how you say it. If you don’t agree, say it in such a way that is not offending.  

Live each day like it’s your last. Don't let an opportunity get passed you because opportunity knocks only once and you only live once. Take up the challenge and be bold. Seize the day and be happy!