Well, well, well… I remembered how mum always asked us why we could not be like a particular relative, friend or neighbour. She always mentioned those who had the best character that she wanted us to emulate.

We all have to agree that as human beings, we derive our character and behaviour from what surrounds us such as family, school, work, and the society.

This is the same for children. They derive their character from their families, friends, neighbours and the surroundings because that is what influences and shapes them.

While other children lie about in couches watching television all day like satisfied puppies, some are out helping their parents to do house chores, reading hard and working to please their parents and guardians.

There are those children whom I would prefer to call treasures. These children are those who make it a point to live their life in the best way they can. They are very active and are often examples to other members of the family. They bring pride and a smile to their parents faces every day.

I know of a family friend’s daughter who was nicknamed, "Holy G” just because of the way she treated and handled herself. Ritah, was always this kind of "miss perfect” at her home. At the ripe age of 15, she was able to look after two siblings, study well and pass her exams and above all respect and obey her parents.

One could tell that she knew the secret behind obeying her parents. Even when her parents quarreled or had misunderstandings, Ritah at that tender age would intervene and later the parents would reconcile for her sake. What a perfect example she was for both the young and old.

After all ‘Charity begins at home’. This holds true for all children. Parents should strive to appreciate those extraordinary and exemplary children in their families and not give up on or badly treat those who fault. All children need love and guidance to thrive and there is no better person in the whole world to do so other than parents.

jacqueuwera@yahoo.com