Training to be independent

It was a normal visit to the GP as YS was having flu symptoms for the past few days.

We waited for our turn as usual (1hr) and finally it was our turn to go into the consultation room.

GP: Yes! can you tell me what happened, boy?

*YS was looking at me initially thinking I would tell the doctor about his discomfort. Instead, I signalled him to tell the GP by himself.

GP: So where are you feeling unwell?

YS: I have flu and cough. I also feel a bit dizzy...

GP: So how long has this been going on?

YS: ....................for about 2-3 days.

* So the Q&A continued until the GP stopped and checked his body.

Suddenly, the GP turned around and looked at me. The very first thing he said to me was...

"Well done mommy! You have trained your son well. You are one of the very few mommies I saw that will let their children tell the doctor about their own symptoms by themselves. Good job!"

Of course I was still feeling quite blur by all his praises.

"You know...I have seen boys who are about 20 - 21 years old and their mothers still have to tell the me what happened to them. I feel they should let their children speak up for themselves since they are the ones who are feeling unwell."

Oh....so now I knew what the GP was talking about. I never knew that my way of teaching my son to be more independent actually earned praises from the doctor.

I believe my boys will have to learn how to take care of themselves then they will learn how to take care of their family. Which is why, I'm gradually learning to let go and let them take charge of certain things in their life. Of course, I will always be there whenever they need me.