The dry season in Africa brings extreme temperatures, challenging the survival of many animals. However, a remarkable fish, the lungfish, has adapted to thrive in these harsh conditions.
Lungfish are typically found in shallow waters and lakes across Africa. Their respiratory system has evolved to allow them to survive on land, much like terrestrial animals. As the water in ponds and lakes dries up, lungfish dig deep into the soil and bury themselves in the mud, only to re-emerge during the rainy season. In Africa, lungfish are known as the “immortal fish” due to their remarkable resilience.
The lungfish’s survival strategy offers an important lesson: facing adversity head-on is essential, rather than avoiding challenges. This principle can be applied to parenting, and there are three types of mothers who can raise exceptional children capable of overcoming obstacles.
The Wise Mother Teaches Independence
Every environment has its rules and challenges. From an early age, children face academic pressure and competition. As they grow older, the competition only intensifies.
To enable their children to compete effectively, parents must let go and encourage independence. If parents fail to do so, their children may reach their twenties lacking basic life skills.
Children who learn independence at an early age are better equipped to navigate future difficulties and adversities. While a mother may seem “tough” by promoting independence, she is, in fact, teaching her child a valuable lesson: reliance on oneself.
Children need to understand that while the family provides a safe haven, they must also develop self-reliance and not depend on others indefinitely.
The Far-Sighted Mother Prepares for the Future
Lungfish dig holes to protect themselves during droughts, only emerging during the rainy season to reproduce. If the dry spell persists, they remain safely buried, demonstrating their ability to foresee and prepare for the future.
Liu Bowen, a founding minister of the Ming Dynasty in China, once wrote: “In dry seasons, prepare boats; in warm seasons, prepare furs.” This highlights the importance of foresight and preparation.
Life follows certain patterns, and it is wise to prepare instead of merely reacting to events. A far-sighted mother anticipates her child’s future needs and makes long-term plans. This is crucial for the child’s success.
Some parents find themselves supporting their adult children financially after they graduate from university due to a lack of career planning. Foresight and long-term preparation increase the chances of a child’s success.
The Thrifty Mother Teaches the Value of Money
Thrifty mothers teach their children the value of money and the hard work that goes into earning it. Growing up witnessing their mother’s financial struggles can motivate children to work hard and appreciate the value of money.
Financial challenges can be a powerful teaching tool. Overcoming these difficulties teaches children endurance and resilience, shaping their character and work ethic.
As the English author Samuel Johnson said, “The happiest people are those who can both spend and save.”
Wise mothers not only provide financial support but also teach their children how to earn and spend money wisely.
The famous novelist Balzac wrote, “Nothing is ever absolute in this world; outcomes vary with individuals. Adversity is a springboard to genius for the capable; a treasure for the able, and a setback for the weak.”
Mothers who wish to raise resilient, financially savvy, and adaptable children must start teaching them these vital lessons from a young age.