When I was a child, my mum told me if I don't study hard, I will become a road sweeper. Coincidently, at that age, I enjoy sweeping the floor and thought I could become a good road sweeper one day. It was one of those myths that I grow up with. I grew up believing police catch naughty children & I was picked up from the rubbish dump.
Few weeks ago, we passed by a green field where some foreign worker were dismantling the tentage after a community event. My boy asked me why all the workers were foreigners. I could have adopted the road sweeper analogy and tell him to study hard. But I didn't.
The foreign workers left their homelands in search of livelihood. They take up low-waged jobs which Singaporeans are reluctant to do. They use their blood and sweat in exchange for bread and butter just to be remitted home miles away. Whether they are construction worker or domestics helper, they are contributing to our economy. When the rubbish truck came by our estates and the children find it smelly, we reminded them the cleaners have the endure the odour the whole day at work.
In today's context, there is an increased influx of foreigners compared to my time. I hope my children can grow up respecting others, regardless of their background and occupation. Meanwhile, I will find other ways to motivate them to study hard.
I was told the same thing by my mum too.
ReplyDeleteIt has never been a thought to use this to encourage my children in studies too.
Many times, I told them how these workers help to keep our country clean.
There is this foreign worker from our neighbourhood (working for years)who we always greet each other and I even teased reiyan that he was her friend, seeing her from toddler till now.
Take every opportunity around us to instill correct values. Better than reading any books
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