My Legacy is Long Lasting Love
Parenting in the present day has undergone many changes along with the development of the times, technology, and understanding of child development. Unlike traditional parenting styles that prioritised authority and strict discipline, modern parenting tends to emphasise approaches based on love, open communication, and understanding of children's emotional and psychological needs.
Mutmainah, a 27-year-old young mother from Sigi Regency, initially raised her children in a very authoritarian way. As a newly married mother with two young children, Zidan (6) and Habiba (4), she often felt frustrated and rushed, leading her to sometimes pinch or scold her children. Time and attention for her children's development were often neglected due to her busy schedule running a business with her husband.
However, Mutmainah's life changed when she joined a parent support group facilitated by the Sikola Mombine Foundation in collaboration with Wahana Visi Indonesia. There, she learned the importance of love, patience, and parental presence in every phase of a child's life. Through guidance and discussions with other parents and religious figures, Mutmainah began to realise that violent parenting would not bring good for her children's future.
Slowly, she began to change the way she interacted with her children. She learned to recognise Zidan's and Habiba's characters and to control her emotions better. Mutmainah also felt fortunate that her husband was very supportive, actively involved in raising the children, and helped her with household chores.
Mutmainah stated, "I feel the positive impact of the knowledge I gained. Joining the Family Support Group taught me to be a better parent and to realise my mistakes. Although I am young and lack experience, I am determined to give my best to my children. I started to recognise their characters and learned to control my emotions. We are not a rich family, but I strive for my children to feel my love until they have children of their own," she said.
Now, Mutmainah feels more confident and happy in her role as a mother. Although she is not a perfect mother, she is committed to giving her best to her children—both in terms of love and attention. Mutmainah hopes that with more parents becoming aware of the importance of loving and non-violent parenting, the village where she lives can become a better place for future generations.
Author: Yuyun Agustina (Community Organiser Yayasan Sikola Mombine, mitra operasional WVI di Kabupaten Sigi)
Editor: Mariana Kurniawati (Communication Executive)
