The lunch table conversation at office today was about how fast paced today's world is and how children are way ahead of where we were when we were their age. I could only comment based on my experience in interacting with other's kids and some of my interactions was when these kids put their best foot forward. However, some interesting thoughts were being thrown around and I was amused.
While one of them felt that she would be well placed today if her parents had provided more guidance during her childhood, another felt that everything in her life was dictated by her parents - what she chose as her hobby, who she played with, what subjects she studied - everything. I was left to wonder if she understood at that time that she was being guided or did she just feel stifled? Did she realize that she did not have the liberty to choose only later in her life?
Now in her own parenting days, she has decided that she'll let her child choose his/her own way. This led to another stream of interesting discussions. Is there any exemplary instance that can help establish the notion that children who were left to choose their own have been able to judge and choose right? Who decides what is right for the child? Is it the prerogative of the parents and society to ensure a child grows to respect the community, the system and what is generally acceptable behavior or does a child in today's fast paced world already know what is right for them? By choosing not to choose for her children, hasn't she already made a choice?!! Messyyy!!! Now, whether she will really let her children choose their way or will a dash of her guidance let her children choose the right way is left to be seen. Nevertheless, parenting is a sweet nightmare. Wish there was a step-by-step manual to guide us - which begs the question again - do we need to be guided at all times or do we know enough to choose right?
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