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Latwell Nyangu
Youth Interactive Writer
Honouring one’s parents is a timeless principle that transcends many cultures and religions, reflecting the importance of family and appreciation.
This principle is not merely a suggestion, but it is a fundamental value that shapes character, builds relationships and fosters a sense of gratitude.
For students, honouring their parents can strengthen familial bonds as well as cultivating respect, responsibility and community cohesion among students.
This week, I am descending on students who have lost their way to the extent of bashing their parents, disrespecting and embarrassing them in public or even at home.
Recently, I have been coming across different stories on young people attacking their parents.
Another case is that of a student in Nyanga who struck his father after an altercation. The father had asked him about his whereabouts the previous day and the confrontation ended up with the young man, who is a student, bashing his father before striking him with an axe.
I also came across a story of a young girl, a student who was dragged to court by her parents over her violent conduct toward them. Reports are that she has been taking some drugs and ended up turning violent on them.
Such cases are not good news, yet children are expected to be honouring their parents.
Children cannot be a burden to the parents who made sure they grow well. In the Bible, the commandment to honour one’s parents is explicitly stated in Exodus 20:12:
“Honour your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” This directive accentuates the notion that respecting parents is not merely a social obligation but a divine mandate. In Ephesians 6:1-3, the Apostle Paul reiterates this command, linking it to the promise of a long and prosperous life.
Such teachings highlight that honouring parents is a pathway to wisdom and fulfilment. Beyond religious texts, various cultural aphorisms emphasise the value of honouring parents.
In many African cultures, there is a saying, “the child who does not honour their parents will not find peace.”
This wisdom reflects a deep-seated belief that familial respect is crucial to harmony within the community.
Similarly, in East Asian cultures, filial piety is a foundational virtue, where respect and care for one’s parents and ancestors are paramount.
Students today have lost the values of even helping parents at home with some work. Some even go to the extent of not embodying the values in meaningful ways. One thing that should be known, parents dedicate their lives to nurturing and supporting their children, often making sacrifices that go unnoticed.
Acknowledging their efforts through simple gestures like expressing gratitude, listening attentively and showing empathy can strengthen familial bonds.
Respecting parents also means valuing their wisdom and experiences, which can provide invaluable guidance during critical life decisions.
Small acts of kindness can significantly impact the relationship between students and their parents.
This can include helping with household chores, spending quality time together, or simply asking about their day. These actions not only show appreciation but also reinforce the idea that family is a priority.
In a fast-paced world where distractions abound, taking the time to connect with parents can foster a nurturing environment that benefits everyone. For many students, academic success is a way to honour their parents’ sacrifices.
Striving for excellence in college is not only a personal goal but also a tribute to the effort and resources parents invest in their education.
Students can honour their parents by dedicating themselves to their studies, participating in extracurricular activities, and pursuing their passions. In doing so, they can reflect the values of hard work and commitment that their parents instilled in them.
Honouring parents also involves open and honest communication where students should feel comfortable discussing their thoughts, aspirations, and challenges with their parents. This dialogue fosters understanding and compassion, allowing both parties to navigate the challenges of life together.
By sharing their experiences and actively listening to their parents, students can build a foundation of trust that enriches their relationship. Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can transform relationships, and students should make it a habit to express their appreciation for their parents, whether through verbal affirmations or written notes.
Simple phrases like, “Thank you for everything”, can go a long way in making parents feel valued.
A culture of gratitude not only honours parents but also cultivates a positive atmosphere within the home.
Honouring parents is vital to a student’s journey toward becoming a well-rounded individual.
It involves respect, kindness, academic dedication, open communication, and gratitude.
By embodying these principles, students not only pay tribute to their parents but also pave the way for a brighter future filled with love and connection.
Ultimately, the act of honouring parents is a celebration of family, a recognition of sacrifices made, and a commitment to nurturing these vital relationships for years to come.
As students reflect on their relationships with their parents, they can draw from biblical teachings and community wisdom to foster respect and thankfulness.
In doing so, they not only enrich their own lives but also contribute to a more harmonious and supportive community.
By embracing the spirit of honouring parents, students can promote a legacy of love and respect that will reverberate for years.
As I end my story this week, allow me to honour all the women across the globe, including my mother. I say Happy Women’s Celebrations to all the women.
Until we meet for a toast
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