At Tsyome Sabadu, my grandmother was my greatest teacher, imparting invaluable lessons about integrity without ever resorting to formal lectures.
Instead, she demonstrated the power of this virtue through her actions and the subtle ways she navigated life's challenges.
She believed that each moment of honesty, each choice made with character, laid the groundwork for who we become.
She often reminded me that the path to building our character is not a smooth one; it is paved with lessons learned from both triumphs and tribulations.
The scars we carry from our experiences are not marks of shame but badges of growth, shaping us into the individuals we are meant to be.
Reflecting
Reflecting on my early years in primary and junior high school, I recall the intertwining of education with a sense of gratitude.
Achievements held little value if they were not anchored in these essential values.
True success was never just about grades or accolades; it was about the respect we held for ourselves and others.
It was about fostering a deep understanding that real education extends beyond the classroom, emphasising the importance of character and ethical principles that guide our actions.
Paradox
Yet, amidst the modern ideals ushering in a world of freedom and human rights, we find ourselves grappling with a paradox.
The abolition of corporal punishment, while a noble endeavour in the pursuit of liberation, has inadvertently given rise to confusion and disobedience among students.
Teachers, who are entrusted with the vital task of shaping young minds, often find themselves in a chaotic landscape, struggling to uphold the true purpose of education.
The sanctity of learning has been overshadowed by a relentless pursuit of superficial achievement, leading us to question whether we have sacrificed genuine enlightenment for mere accolades.
Honesty, integrity
Our ancestors understood that honesty and integrity are not relics of the past; they are timeless principles that can illuminate our path in education and life.
We must draw upon the rich tapestry of experiences shared by those who came before us.
We can weave together the threads of integrity, resilience, and empathy, creating a strong fabric that will support future leaders.
Let us aim to instil in our children the understanding that true education requires more than just acquiring knowledge; it demands fostering a sense of responsibility, respect and care for one another.
We can remind them that every choice they make, each path they follow, is an opportunity to contribute to a brighter future for themselves and those around them.
Our hope is not just for their personal success, but for a legacy of integrity that will shape their actions and impact generations to come.
In this way, the lessons from Tsyome Sabadu can inspire a movement toward a more thoughtful, compassionate, and ethically grounded society.
In today's world, there is often an overwhelming focus on high test scores and academic achievements.
While knowledge is important, it should not be our sole measure of success.
True success encompasses much more than what’s written on a report card.
It lies in the strength of our character, the virtues we embody, and the ethical choices we make each day.
These aspects shape how we interact with others and navigate the complexities of life.
What is the essence of having a brilliant child today who ends up in prison tomorrow because of bad character?
We must actively incorporate these timeless values into our lives and our communities.
By reviving and adapting the teachings of the past, we can create a future that is firmly rooted in integrity.
When we prioritise character development and virtue, we not only enrich our lives but also contribute to a more compassionate and thriving society.
Let us challenge ourselves to redefine success.
What does it mean to be successful?
Perhaps it is not just about the accolades or the achievements, but about how we treat one another, how we contribute to our communities, and how we stand up for what is right.
When we reflect on these questions, we may find that the answers lead us to a deeper understanding of our purpose and the legacy we wish to leave behind.
The writer is a marketing/communication consultant.
E-mail: benonymullray@gmail.com
