Chapter 6: Parents unite

Mom was standing on the stairway that led to our room, calling us for supper. " Viany, Sarah, come to tea. Your Dad is already here".

I closed the book I was reading and Viany put her pen down on her homework book. We both hurried down the stairs to the dining room.

Mom had set the table and Viany helped her get tea. We all sat down.

There was a silent moment. Dad was looking at Viany and I. "Sarah and Viany", he said, "Have you had a fight?". Mom, who never usually noticed our moods, looked up at us too.

After what seemed like a long time, Viany responded. "Mom, I would love to have my own room. Why can't I? We have lots of spare rooms in this house".

Dad said "Viany, what is the problem with sleeping in the room we gave you and your sister?"

Viany said "Dad, I'm fed up with living with Sarah. She doesn't make her bed. She doesn't clean the room. She leaves all her things on the floor".

Mom looked at me, surprised. "Sarah, is this true?". I looked at the ground. "Maybe". I said.

Mom said, "OK Sarah, you will have the visitor's room. I will get it ready. But, you can only keep it if you look after it, and if you go to school on time and keep your room clean, OK?"

"OK", I said. "And Viany", I said, looking at her. "I'm sorry for everything. I hope you can forgive me."

"Sarah", Viany said. "I have forgiven you already. I hope we stay good friends.

Mom said "Thank you girls for sorting this out. I am grateful to your help. We are a good team".

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To the parents of Uganda, I say: It is possible to work together with children to sort out family problems. Do not think that you must do everything alone. Families should work together as a team.

Parents should think about how to equip children with good life skills, so that they can become strong and wise in life. The reward will be good family relationships and love, and the care of their children in old age.

This applies to guardians too. Just because you are looking after children who are not your biological children does not mean you should not love and care for them well, and with respect.