LESSON 5

HONOR AND HELP YOUR PARENTS

 

5. HONOR¹ AND HELP YOUR PARENTS.

     From a child’s point of view, parents are sometimes hard to understand.

     There are differences between generations.  But truthfully, this is no barrier.  When one is weak, it is a temptation to take refuge in  subterfuges and lies: it is this which builds the wall.

     Children can reconcile their differences with their parents.  Before any shouting begins, one can at least try to talk it over quietly.  If the child is frank and honest, there cannot help but be an appeal that will reach.  It is often possible to attain a compromise² where both sides now understand and can agree.  It is not always easy to get along with others but one should try.

     One cannot overlook the fact that almost always, parents are acting from a very strong desire to do what they believe to be best for the child.

     Children are indebted to their parents for their upbringing—if the parents did so.  While some parents are so fiercely independent that they will accept no return on the obligation, it is nevertheless true that there often comes a time when it is the turn of the younger generation to care for their parents.

     In spite of all, one must remember that they are the only parents one has.  And as such, no matter what, one should honor them and help them.

The way to happiness

includes being on

good terms with one’s

parents or those

who brought one up.

Test your knowledge of Lesson 5: Honor and Help Your Parents.

Definition of Terms for This Lesson

>appeal: an earnest or urgent request to somebody for something, such as aid or support.

>²compromise: a settlement of differences in which each side gives in on some point while retaining others and reaching a mutual agreement thereby.

¹honor: to show respect for; to treat with deference and courtesy.

deference: courteous and respectful regard for another; polite respect.

reconcile: resolve or end a conflict; solve or settle a quarrel or dispute.

subterfuges: secret, usually dishonest, ways of behaving or doing something; actions designed to hide, avoid or escape something.

take refuge in: turn to something as a means of escape, comfort or the like.