🌸 "The Courage of a Mother Who Could Say 'It's Okay Not to Go to School'"

🌿 Today is Sunday, and I am bringing you a "Story That Connects to the Future."

The other day, I heard the term "non-cognitive skills" from two different people, so I would like to share it with you.
"Non-cognitive skills" are said to be the "human strengths" that cannot be measured by test scores.

I spoke with a mother yesterday, and she was very happy to share that her third son had received a job offer from a design company.

That third son was born with heart valves as thin as plastic wrap, so he could only watch during physical education and spent his days feeling mentally down. Ten years ago, he stopped going to school, and the family was deeply troubled.

Since that child was a 'Giant' type in the Enneagram (Type 8: the type that wants to move the world with power), I believe his complex regarding his physical handicap was quite significant.

When I was consulted, I advised, "I want you to tell him with your own words, 'It's okay not to go to school.'"

The mother was very hesitant, but she firmly said, "It's okay not to go." After many twists and turns, he has grown into a wonderful young man and is finally about to enter the workforce.

The mother said that if she had told him to go to school back then, the outcome would likely not be what it is today.

I believe that when human energy is commanded or suppressed by others, one either obeys, rebels, or just goes with the flow.

However, when there is no oppression or instruction from others, and one is forced to make their own choices, their true strength wells up from within. It may take time, but I feel that it eventually leads to a good conclusion.

Non-cognitive skills are also said to be "muscles of the heart." Perhaps the heart's muscles gradually grow stronger by struggling to find answers rather than relying on easy ones.

🙋‍♂️ Today's Question

What meaning does the "time when you couldn't find an answer" hold for you?

🐾 Cat's Murmur

"It is precisely the time when there is no right answer that the heart grows, meow."

👉 I have written a more in-depth version of this theme as a complete reference guide.

💬 If you resonate with this, please share in the comments an experience where you felt that the hesitation you felt back then is connected to where you are now.

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