Dear Christine,
I would like to tell all children in Barbados that when their parents are trying hard to ensure they get a good education, they must learn to appreciate what their parents are doing for them because a sound education is most important.
I am now finishing high school here in Canada at the age of 33.
My mum was a single parent with no help so she could not afford to send me to high school.
At the same elementary school in Barbados which I attended, the teacher only paid attention to the children who came from families that were better off than mine.
I was not accepted and was treated like dirt because I was poor.
I came to Canada seven years ago and it was only then that I realised how important a good education was.
Thank God for this wonderful Canadian lady who encouraged me to continue my education.
I now have an opportunity to study for the career I want.
I would like to repeat for all the children reading this column that they should try and finish school, go to college and university.
Faith in God and a good education should come first; anything else can follow after.
– M.O.
Dear M.O.,
Your words of advice could not be any clearer, especially to those who choose to put relationships and various social activities before their education.
I am sure that if the teacher who ignored you while you were still at school reads your letter, he or she would feel very ashamed of the shabby treatment shown to you through your years of poverty.
Anyhow, like the song says: “You made it through the rain.”
You made it and even though I do not know you, I am so happy for you.
I hope that young people who read your letter will appreciate what you have said and the fact that someone out there cares enough to share her own personal experience and encourage them not to let a good education pass them by.
Too many children are indifferent and lukewarm to the educational treasures available to them.
Not many will even meet the type of person you’ve met who will point out to them that it’s never too late to learn.
– CHRISTINE