This piece serves as a reflective exploration into the intricate journey of nurturing children’s education, spanning nearly two decades into the institution of marriage.
In the tender years of infancy, devoid of the contemporary challenges posed by ubiquitous gadgets and social media, the education of our children predominantly revolved around the technicalities of caregiving and fostering easy bonds through shared activities.
The trials of those early days were as tangible as they were relentless: managing nocturnal urination and bouts of vomiting, soothing bloated tummies, tending to ceaseless cries, and navigating the elusive pursuit of adequate sleep.
During this phase, my spouse and I endeavored to encapsulate our experiences and insights into several written works on child-rearing, serving not only as a practical guide but also as a memoir of sorts for our progeny to delve into, seeking to understand the formative years of their lives.
As our children transitioned into adolescence, ushering in the era of pervasive social media platforms and the cultural zeitgeist dominated by TikTok and Netflix, the complexity of our educational endeavors grew exponentially.
The mundane challenges of diapers and regurgitation were supplanted by the tumultuous waves of rebellion and emotional upheaval, where laughter and tears gave way to the relentless assault of existential quandaries on the bedrock principles of life.
With the onset of this phase, the dynamics of our relationship with our offspring underwent a profound evolution, shifting away from a paradigm of unilateral authority towards one characterized by empathy, understanding, and the cultivation of trust—a feat not devoid of its own set of challenges.
Despite our earnest efforts and fervent prayers, we found ourselves grappling with the disconcerting reality that some children choose divergent paths and adopt perspectives diametrically opposed to those espoused by their progenitors. In such instances, it is disheartening to observe the seemingly unwavering trust and esteem bestowed upon peers who offer little more than superficial camaraderie and material indulgence, eclipsing the tireless efforts of parents striving to provide guidance and nurture.
Yet, amid the tumult of conflicting emotions and the echoes of rebellion resonating within our hearts, we find solace in the profound empathy that emerges from reflecting on our own formative years. It is in these moments of introspection that we recognize the imperative of patience and understanding, akin to the unwavering resolve of Prophet Yaakub as he imparted his wisdom to his progeny, steadfast in their adherence to the tenets of Islam.
The journey ahead remains fraught with uncertainties, and the ultimate outcome of our educational endeavors lies beyond our grasp. However, therein lies the essence of our pursuit—the relentless commitment to exert effort, to impart wisdom, and to instill values that transcend the temporal confines of this mortal realm.
To our beloved children, we impart this timeless counsel: remain resolute in your faith and steadfast in your pursuit of righteousness. May you emerge as heirs who not only uphold the sanctity of prayer but also embody the virtues of truth and patience, serving as beacons of guidance in a world fraught with uncertainty and turmoil.
Dr. Mohd Hisham bin Sharif
NYDP ISMA Kubang Pasu
