Dear Editor,

I thank God for sparing our lives to see another new year.

Last year was a very challenging one in many respects, but as many as the challenges were, there were also breakthroughs. The mighty manifestation of God’s power and intervention were clearly seen.

How does the future look, bright, dark, dull, hopeful? The outcome will largely depend on the pathway we decide to take. Presently we are in a state of dullness to darkness because prosperity is not the answer.

The country is in a mournful state due to crime and violence. Many children are perplexed because of the double standard that has been meted out to them. Some are in despair because of the moral breakdown in the society. Children, by nature, look for guidance and, by instinct, they know when things are wrong. They need good guidance. They want someone to tell them when they are making the wrong decisions.

Children left to do what they desire will ultimately have regret if they do not use a standard that is wiser than theirs, more insightful than theirs, and perfect. Who can provide that standard? Only God. This is why we need to cultivate godliness in our children. They are not just the future generation but precious human beings who need good guidance so that they may be mentally, physically, and spiritually healthy.

This responsibility of guiding our children is not solely that of parents, but also teachers and other adults who are involved in their lives. The Government must see to it that no laws are passed that will be of detriment to our children’s mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.

A bright future is one that follows the guidance of God’s word. There is absolutely no regret in that, but blessings.

The book of Proverbs is full of insight, and we should meditate on the words of Proverbs 1:7: “To have knowledge, you must first have reverence for the Lord. Stupid people have no respect for wisdom and refuse to learn.”

Sonia Fay Buckland

faithfulb7@yahoo.com