My father's big four about life

During an annual cousin's meeting, my father shared four important life lessons about God, love, education and alcoholism that he learnt from his father. Here's what he said:

1. God

Find it of great importance to know God, observe a religion and go to church. I learnt about God and how to pray from my parents. Moreover, my father greatly contributed to the spread of the catholic faith in this locality. By the time he passed on in 1962, he had served as a catechist for a number of years. Think about God and think about church. Teach your children to pray and you will find a lot of peace in your later years.

2. Love

You can only begin to truly love others once you have learnt to love yourself; you can only give what you have. Endure to do what is right and present yourself well. One example is to dress well to earn respect at first glance. Secondly, love your parents. When you love them you will not have a reason to regret and say 'I wish I knew' if they leave this world before you. Give them a call every once in a while and let them know what is new in your life. Thirdly, love each other as brothers and sisters and love your neighbours.

3. Education

Back in the day, a woman would be sent away from her matrimonial home for poor workmanship. It was that important then. Times have changed. These days, a good education for you and your children will earn you respect. Find out the best school around and take your children there, especially if you can afford it. You must maximize the potential of a good education.

4. Alcoholism

If you will take alcohol, then do so as a gentleman or lady would. When you take too much alcohol you will find that over time you have nothing to take home to your family and eventually, your family will suffer. On the other hand, if your spouse or someone else in the family drinks a lot, do not isolate him. Find ways of encouraging them. Let them know that you are together with them in the situation and that so many other families have similar struggles. Also, whenever the drinking leads to a family dispute find an amicable way of resolving it so that that the situation does not get worse.

I have had bits and pieces of these advice before but hearing it from my father made a huge difference. These words I will forever hold close to my heart and live up to them as my father has.