“Dad, Mum, what should I do with my life?” That was the question a teenage boy asked his parents one early morning after prayers and a night of reflection over a sermon on the dangers of growing up without heeding parental guidance. The question caught the parents by surprise. The mother tried to defer to the father, while the father attempted to pass it back to the mother. Meanwhile, the boy and his younger siblings listened attentively for an answer.
Many parents are unprepared for such questions, especially when they come unexpectedly. Yet one of the central duties of parenting is to guide children with wisdom, clarity and direction when confronted with life’s difficult questions.
In truth, the family was fortunate that the boy asked the question at all. He created an opportunity for everyone to reflect once more on the family’s values. The parents were blessed to have a child willing to share his inner concerns. Many young people do not. The children were equally fortunate to have both parents present to share such a moment with them.
More importantly, society stands to benefit most from such conversations because they help to shape responsible citizens, future leaders and the hope of a better tomorrow. We must never trivialise such moments. They do not come often.
The Holy Bible, in Book of Proverbs 29:15, states: “A child left to himself brings shame to his mother.” That shame extends beyond the mother to the family and society at large. What a society loses by neglecting the proper upbringing of its children is enormous. In many ways, it risks losing its soul and future.
Scripture consistently teaches that the moral formation of children affects the quality of leadership and the condition of society. Book of Proverbs 22:6 declares: “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
By implication, poor upbringing can produce poor judgement and weak leadership later in life. Our society is already in desperate need of responsible leaders and followers. Last Saturday, during the commemoration of the International Day of the Boy Child, we had another opportunity to celebrate our boys and guide them towards responsible citizenship and greatness. On Wednesday, May 27, we will mark Children’s Day across Nigeria.
Beyond the colourful displays of schools’ ceremonial uniforms, marching bands and parades, Children’s Day carries a deeper meaning. It offers society an opportunity to pay closer attention to children and steer them towards civic responsibility and leadership. While the pomp and ceremony gladden young hearts, they also leave lasting memories of nationhood and belonging.
Every year during Children’s Day celebrations in Nigeria and many other nations, children participate in organised parades, anthem recitations and coordinated performances. These are not primarily military exercises, but civic and symbolic activities intended to nurture responsible citizenship and national consciousness.
The tradition evolved largely from British colonial ceremonial culture, missionary school systems, scouting organisations and parade traditions that emphasised discipline, order and patriotism. Through marching and organised displays, children learn teamwork, punctuality, attentiveness, self-control and collective responsibility. National and state anthems also help them develop a sense of belonging that transcends ethnic or family identity.
Children’s Day activities further recognise children as the future of society while giving schools opportunities to showcase organisation, talent and unity. Such experiences help build confidence, resilience, leadership qualities and civic pride from an early age.
These occasions should also prompt reflection on children’s welfare, education, emotional development and moral upbringing. Special days dedicated to children remind us that the young are central to the future of our families, communities and nation.
So, when a child asks his parents what he should do with his life, they ought to be ready with thoughtful guidance. Aristotle once observed: “Where your talents and the needs of the world cross, there lies your vocation.”
Often, a teenager asking such a question is not merely seeking career advice. He is searching for direction, identity and meaning.
The best parental response should therefore combine love, patience, moral guidance, practical wisdom and encouragement.
Parents who nurture discipline, integrity, education and service while helping their children discover their talents and passions are laying the foundation for meaningful lives. Rather than impose careers upon them, they should teach them to become useful, responsible and morally grounded citizens. Through learning, mentorship and experience, young people can gradually discover their vocation and contribute positively to society.
• Nnabuife, FNGE, FSNA, author, and journalist writes from Awka, Anambra State via [email protected]. 08026472357.
