This lockdown period was unexpected, unprecedented and for many, unfortunate. But through this period our parents, each in their own way have allowed for us to learn far and beyond that which we learn on our daily zoom calls. Below are some invaluable lessons my friends and I have learnt from our parents during this period.

Valuable lessons 

Despite the situation at hand, never use anything as an excuse to do nothing. Use this opportunity to venture into new things and work hard because opportunity knocks once. – Njoki 

I have learnt that my dad could do household chores and that my mum is a really good cook. But most of all, I have learnt that they both don’t enjoy being in the house for long periods of time.- Fiona 

They have taught me that each morning when you feel like lying in bed all day remember what you are trying to achieve at the end of the day. Give yourself a break from time to time. Give your mind a break. Connect with the people around you, your family and friends. And most importantly, take care of yourself: mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. – Ann

Optimism! On some of my lowest days they taught me to look for the light. Perseverance! On the days when I wanted to give up they taught me to keep pushing even when the results don’t come immediately. I’ve learnt that somehow things will work out and if I stop pushing, then I’ll never get to see the possibilities that lie in store for me.- Theru

To keep going, no matter the circumstance. I’ve watched both my parents, especially my mum, make it work, albeit tough circumstances. I watch them try, as much as possible, to ensure that both me and my sister have all our needs attended to, which I have seen to motivate them. And this has made me incredibly proud of them. – Chelsy 

It’s not worth it to feel good today at the expense of tomorrow, neither is it worth it to cry forever and keep holding on to the hope of a smile in the future. That I should think about my future and not lose focus on my passion. To live in the moment but to think of tomorrow as well. – Jasmine 

The importance of adaptability and balance in one’s life – how adapting to different situations has an effect on your work and your life. Balancing work and family which is essential. I appreciate greatly the untimely opportunity to spend time with my family and learn new things from my family. – Paula 

During this time my mum has been tackling household work, taking care of her children while still working from home, which has shown me the importance of hard work. I acknowledge that many of the things my parents provide for me, they worked hard for, and I am beyond grateful for their effort. Watching my mum gives me the strength I need to work hard so I can provide for my future family and later take care of my parents the way they cared for me. – Esther 

I’ve learned that as much as children are a reflection of our parents, we are in many ways different and as much as we also share certain traits we have evolved into completely different human beings that are products of our environment and our nature. So as much as they are our parents, we will argue and differ which is completely in order. – Shirleen

I have learned how to choose my battles with them. Petty issues that we would normally fight over like who does chores and when, have been deemed irrelevant. As seeing how hard they work from home to provide the basic necessities and luxuries has made me appreciate what they do and want to take up more responsibilities to ease the weight off their shoulders. We have bonded through games and pushed each other to achieve our goals. With motivation being lower than usual during this time and the world being full of uncertainties, my parents have kept me in check as their motivation inspires me. – Mutanu 

Quarantine has been a time to reflect and learn. To learn more about my parents and to learn more about myself. I learnt that our family wouldn’t make the greatest choir but I also learned the importance of hard work and perseverance. I learnt a great deal of compassion as they gave knowing that the well could run dry. My mother said “You give not because you have excess, but because someone else needs your help.” – Imani

I have learned that my parents, my parents are not superheroes. My parents worry, they struggle, they have flaws and they feel. My parents are human. – Shakira 

I have learned the importance of selfishness in selflessness. I have learned that to give you must also draw from the well in which you pour. I have learned that in working towards my dreams and ambitions I must care as well for myself. My mum says I am ‘ intense’ but in a good way, that I am devoted and selfless but often I forget to be selfish and in that moment I lose sight of what I want and get caught up in the when’s and the how’s. So the greatest lesson my parents have taught me during this lock down period is to take care of myself amidst taking care of others. – Wairimu 

13 people, 13 families and a lifetime of lessons. We understand now more than ever that parenting does not come with a manual and each of them strives to do their best with no set guidelines and we will forever be grateful for the guidance they provide to us, even as they drive blind.