Of Mothers and Fathers

It already passed, but June 1st was a Sunday for both parents, to celebrate, thank, pamper, and remember them. In reality, every day is a day for them, and they never take a break from the moment they bring us into this world until they leave. However, few know about the celebration of this world day beyond the ones dedicated individually to mothers in May and to fathers this same month.

The United Nations General Assembly was the entity that proclaimed this anniversary to recognize them, together, as fundamental in raising children with the responsibility and dedication that this entails.

I don't like to call it homework as if it were a matter of starting here and finishing there, but it’s extremely complicated, there’s no rest, it requires a lot of effort and it’s of great social importance because of what parents do with each of us will color the world and reflect on society. Only then will the mark of the school, the teachers, the friends, and everyone around us be left behind.

Parents bear the full burden of protecting and guiding their children on the right path, of raising them into good people, social beings with values, capable of developing and being independent.

Parenting is a thorny path seldom appreciated, but it’s criticized. It isn't easy; it brings sleepless nights, exhaustion, frustration, pain, a desire to disappear, and people believe they can't handle so much, that they don't have a moment of peace between illness, feeding, school, and life's conflicts. However, most parents embrace and learn their formula for educating and raising children and don't give up because, in reality, being parents is also about tenderness, happiness, and love.

For many, the mother-father partnership is the perfect one for their children. There may be grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, and extended family members, plus other guardians, but there's nothing like growing up alongside them when the atmosphere is harmonious. You learn tolerance, you try to understand children's psychology from the generational gap and equally distant codes to help them form their own identity. You do what you can, but always, if it's done with affection, it's fine.

The joy of being and having parents should be celebrated.

Translated by Amilkal Labañino / CubaSi Translation Staff