Let go when it is time to do so...

Over the years, I have heard and seen cases of family disharmony and even disputes when the parents, observedly the mothers, continue to cling on to the "power" or "authority" they have assumed at home for many years when their children were much younger. As the children grow up and even have their own family, it is time for the senior parents to resign, retire and retreat into an "honourary" position to enjoy their golden years, doing what they have been longing to do when they were younger.

Unfortunately, some of these parents are still holding on to their ''executive'' position, meddling a great deal in their children's affairs and this has undoubtedly disturbed the family harmony and equilibrium. Having said this, I have also seen good families where the senior parents have learnt to let go and retired very gracefully. When they do this, it makes it easier for the children to manage their own family and the children would in turn be much more appreciative towards them.

Frankly, knowing when and how to let go is not easy. It needs an open mind and a humbling heart to be willing to let go of the power the senior parents once assumed at home when bringing up the children.