New Zealand Travel No.19 (Day 5 of Stay −3)After School in New Zealand — A Child’s Inner Conflict and a Parent’s Loving Effort

My seven-year-old grandson came home from school.
First, he took out his lunch box and threw the rubbish into the bin.
Then he rinsed the box quickly with water and even left it soaking in the sink.

I thought that alone was very good.

However, his mother said,
“Please wash it a little more carefully and put it into the dishwasher.”
Her tone was slightly strict.

My grandson wanted to play games.
He also wanted to have a snack.

But there were things he needed to do first.
He had to practice the piano.

I could see a small inner conflict growing inside his small body.

Soon, it was time to leave for his younger sister’s swimming lesson.
Inside the house, there was a busy rhythm that supports children as they grow.

Watching this scene reminded me of my own days of raising children.
When my children were young, I also let them take many lessons.
I did not always have the time to stop and think
whether they were suited for them or whether they truly liked them.

Parents always act for the sake of their children.
Yet sometimes that loving intention may create small struggles within a child.

The mother who is raising these children now is truly busy.
Even so, she works hard every day, thinking of what is best for them.

As I watch her,
I feel that parenting is something that is passed on
from one generation to the next.

In the quiet after-school hours in New Zealand,
I observe this precious time of growth
from a little distance.

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