I've been on-leave from work due to my recent gall bladder removal operation. For a couple of days, I have been spending quality time with my kids. Husband took a 2-week emergency leave as well to help me on my recovery . Those precious days we've been together as a complete family were like heaven. And today, that piece of heaven ended. Next week, I will be going back to work and my husband left for UAE today. It is a very sad moment for me and my kids. Tearfully heart-breaking...
As I was cramming to finish my reports (on a weekend), my second child, Inyaki(Aki) came up to me and asked a very interesting and painful question. He looked over the window, then asked,
Aki: Mom, why do parents go to work?
Me : So that they will have money to pay for all the dues Aki. Like the electricity, school, groceries and buy you the things you need. For Kuya and Majika...
Then, he looked at me and frowned as if he was not satisfied with my answer. In his little young heart and mind he reasoned dramatically:
Aki: No Mom, I think parents go to work so that they can be away from their kids. They don't want to take care of their kids.
I was really controlling the tears from falling, then I asked him something that he always agree with.
Me: Aki, do you want me to stop working?
Aki:(all smiles and gleefully grinning) Pleaaaase Mom!!!! So that I can ask you questions anytime, and hug you and play with you all day long.
I hugged him so tight then I cried so hard. Right before me is a blessing bigger than any career in the world. I have never felt so guilty in my life.
I have always directed my kids to be independent, exposed them to the cause and effect of their actions and to teaching them to be responsible with their own feelings.In his own capacity, a 5-year old boy so in touch with his feelings- I saw the fruits of my labor. It matters not how painful it was. But I needed it to shed light into my priorities.
As I try to teach my kids everything about life, my kids has taught me what life is all about.
