Words by: Sithuli De Alwis
Art by: Evelyn Johnson

As children, we often fail to understand the wisdom behind our parents’ constant advice. They repeat the same words over and over, yet we shrug them off, only to realise later in life how valuable those lessons truly were.

During my primary and middle school years, I struggled to make friends and even faced bullying, leaving me feeling quite isolated. I had no one to sit or play with, and no one to smile or share with. There were days I went home in tears, dreading the thought of returning to school the next day. But through it all, my parents stood by me. They constantly reminded me to focus on my studies, assuring me that success would eventually attract the right people into my life. They told me that hard work would help me break free from the social challenges I faced and, once I did, I’d be unstoppable.

At the time, I struggled to understand how academic success could change my social life. Their words felt reassuring yet unrealistic, like an empty promise. Still, I clung to it, not just because of my parents’ belief, but also because a part of me desperately wanted something to change. I longed for a sense of belonging, hoping that good grades might somehow bridge that gap. There were moments when doubt crept in, and loneliness felt heavier than before. Even in those moments, I reminded myself that if I held on tight, something would change. When I achieved top results in my Ordinary Level exams, I experienced an initial shift in perspective. 

It was in my final year of high school that I finally found the friends I had always longed for. It began most unexpectedly when we decided to organise a study session. That one moment of chance turned into something greater. As we worked through our assignments, our group of four naturally formed. Now I cannot imagine a day without them in my life. Looking back, I realise my parents were right that friendship does come at the right time, and it’s always worth the wait. 

Another realisation came when those who once treated me poorly began seeking my help with their studies. My parents had always taught me that grudges only weigh you down, and holding onto one would not make me feel better; it would only make me feel more miserable. Thus, I chose to let go and offer support. At that moment, I saw another piece of my parents’ advice come to life: when you work hard and succeed, even those who doubted you will recognise your value.

I had overcome the social mindfield of high school and realised my parents’ words carried more weight than I could have ever imagined.

Looking back, I realise my parents were right all along. The lessons they have taught me have proven true and shaped my life in ways I never expected. Life will throw challenges our way, each one different to the next, with no two people facing the same. The weight of these challenges is determined by how we choose to face them. I now see them as life’s way of testing and strengthening us for whatever lies ahead. I realised the key to overcoming them is to set a goal and push forward, even when giving up seems easier. It is like crossing a broken bridge with just a small piece of wood to hold onto. If you keep going despite the fear, you’ll make it across and find something greater than you imagined. Life rewards perseverance.  

Now, I live by those lessons I once ignored. No matter how difficult the journey may seem, with hard work, patience, and a positive mindset, everything will fall into place when the time is right.