Family Values: Learning to say, Yes, after you’ve said lots of No (PART 1) As Mr. Jide Olumide woke up that morning, his farm project weighed heavily on him mind. It was another planting season and the signs of early rains were everywhere. However, the constant pain at his back forced him to call out to his two sons, Yinka and Tolu. “My sons,” their father started, “which of you can handle the supervision of planting the yam seedlings in the farm this week?” Mr. Olumide was no authoritarian. He had raised his sons to feel free to share their views and choose their path in life. Yinka, the eldest, was the first to speak. He had just arrived home from his NYSC last month and had barely gone to see his father’s famous farm project. “Daddy, your request is coming too impromptu. You could have told us last week. I have an engagement today with Rose and her family. You know we are in top gear from the wedding plans. I am sorry, but I can’t go to the farm today, and even this whole week.” Their father turned to Tolu. He could predict his response. His final year law exams were just around the corner. “Daddy, you know I have exams in two weeks time. I have barely done a thorough work for this crucial exam. However, I know that this project is dear to you. So, I will go. I will go to the farm early in the mornings, take a break by midday to study, and then, return in the evening to conclude with the workers.” Mr. Olumide broke into a smile. “Tolu, I appreciate your schedules and your sacrifices for this project.” He struggled on his feet and gave him a hug. Then, he managed to sit again and faced the two growing men, ”My boys, always remember that it was from this farm I sponsored all your educational needs and someday, it will be up to one of you to run this farm.” QUESTION: 1. Did Yinka do well by refusing to go to the farm? Could he have disappointed his fiancée and her family? 2. Is Tolu thinking properly? These are final year law exams. Would mid-day study be sufficient for the demands of these exams? Should he take such an enormous risk just to please his father? 3. Why is Mr. Olumide making such demands on his sons, when he knows that going on with each of them? Isn’t he selfish? Couldn’t he have hired a supervisor for this period and allowed his sons to face their lives?
Posted on: Mon, 19 Aug 2013 07:31:46 +0000
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