The Samuel family has been part of SWAHA for more than ten years, supporting the Tulsi Manas Mandir in Sangre Grande. Ronnie and Sharon Samuel have been happily married for 18 years and have two beautiful children, Jovan (15 years of age and currently a student of Hillview College) and Jodelle (9 years of age and a student of the SWAHA Primary School). Both Ronnie and Sharon have been asked to share with us some of their experiences and parenting tips.
1. Question – Bringing up a teenager and a young girl in today’s world can have its challenges. What would you say is key in ensuring they develop into well-rounded human beings?
Sharon – A lot of patience and understanding. Communication is the key. I’ve always considered my parenting style as “old school”, authoritative. We have established some rules and guidelines that they are expected to follow especially when it comes to showing respect to elders, performing daily religious/spiritual practices, household chores, etc., which appears very structured. However, I’m very much responsive to them and listen to what they have to say. We are open in that we are their parents but also try to be their friends. As a mother you always need to nurture them and show them love and appreciation. For me I believe it’s a balance between being assertive and nurturing.
Seeking the guidance of the guru and ensuring that they are involved in temple activities. They learn about team work, discipline and how to conduct themselves. We spend quality time together as frequently as possible and also have family meetings as well to share our thoughts, strengthen the family bond and keep the communication open.
Ronnie – As a father and with my job as a prison officer, I am constantly reminded of the results of bad parenting and that gives me added fuel to ensure that I do my best to support my children, provide guidance and the love that is needed. I’ve learnt to listen, be slow to react and always think twice before acting. My area of work has thought me certain strategies in how to deal with different types of people. Although these situations are extreme, it still applies to my everyday life. Some people all they need is someone to listen to them and they are quick to comply. In other situations, it requires more assertion and “force” so I’ve learnt how to respond to different situations by determining what situations require.
2. Question – For those who are thinking about starting a family and having children of their own, what advice would you give to them?
Proper planning is important. Ensure that there is a strong support system established with relatives and/or close friends that share same values. In my case, I realised that staying at home was necessary in ensuring that they were taken care of and I’m seeing the fruits of that decision.
3. Question – Closing comments? – Hard work and sacrifices do pay off. We’re not perfect but we are very proud of who they are becoming and feel very fortunate to be part of the SWAHA family, which has provided us with the continued guidance, support and opportunities for growth.
Submitted by Tulsi Manas Mandir
