Lý Gia Thành, the richest man in Hong Kong in 2019, is known for his influence in Asia. He became a billionaire through hard work and self-learning. Despite not having the opportunity to attend high school or university, he dedicated his evenings to teaching his children. Every Monday evening, regardless of how busy he was, the whole family would gather for dinner. He believed that attitude is the key to shaping a person, not just their qualifications, and this would be evident in people’s behavior and manners at the dining table.
Character Revealed at the Dining Table
It is often said that how a man treats the waitstaff reflects how he treats his partner. One’s manners and behavior during a meal reveal their politeness, intelligence, and inner nature. In Lý Gia Thành’s family dinners, he treated the household staff with equal respect, regardless of their social status.
He always appreciated those who cooked for him, showing genuine care for them. If the food wasn’t to his liking, instead of blindly criticizing, he chose to address the issue through positive actions and constructive feedback. Words of encouragement and recognition not only showed respect but also demonstrated noble character. He led by example and taught his children to treat everyone with the same respect.
Education as Intangible Wealth
Educational development comes from the heart and is often a combination of education, environment, and family influence. Education is the valuable asset parents provide to their children, preparing them for life’s journey. The education received in childhood shapes one’s character and qualities as they grow older. Children are not born spoiled, but rather their upbringing and environment influence their behavior. Teaching children independence and proper conduct is more valuable than giving them material possessions.
Lý Gia Thành taught his children to live modestly and earn everything through hard work. As a result, his two sons did not indulge in extravagant and wasteful lifestyles. When they were young, they rarely had private transportation; instead, they used public transportation like electric bikes and buses, just like other children.
Loving a Child Does Not Mean Indulgence
According to Lý Gia Thành, loving a child does not mean providing them with the best material things. When his children grew up, he sent them abroad for education, meaning they had to become independent. At the ages of 13 and 15, they had to be self-reliant while studying abroad. They faced unfamiliar environments and bid farewell to a life of being served and cared for. However, his children never complained about how their father treated them, and they achieved their own successes and independence.
Therefore, parents must pay attention to teaching their children even in the smallest details of everyday behavior. The best form of education is by setting an example for their children to follow.
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