Teaching Compassion

Growing up, my siblings and I didn't have much. We had our basic needs met, but not much more than that. I used to wonder if we were poor, especially when comparing our family to others. But when I got older, I learnt about the poorer people in the society whose kids have less than us. I stopped feeling bad about not having more. I learnt about compassion. I also realised quickly that the best way out of poverty is education.

Even when I was just 12, my heart used to ache when I saw pictures of starving and sick children. I wept for them. I wished I could help in any small ways. I knew in my heart that one day, I will want to do more for the poorer and less fortunate people in the world.

In my earlier days, I had small dreams of who and how I could help. Then somewhere along my career, I had the opportunity of a lifetime to work with a visionary whose professional career in the charitable sector changed the lives of many less fortunate people. I learnt a tremendous amount from him. I fundraised millions with my team of hard working staff and I saw for myself how I could make a big difference to many people's lives. All it takes is a good heart that is compassionate and a will of steel.

As a parent, there are many things in life that I like to teach my sons. One of which I like to start young is the importance of compassion. 

Whenever the opportunities present, like an article or photographs in magazines, newspapers or the news on TV, I raise their awareness about the others in the world who aren't as blessed as they are. 

Already, I am seeing a heightened sensitivity in my 4yo who is exhibiting a curiosity about poverty and the less fortunate lot in society. He is warming up to the idea that even he, as a small child, could make a small difference in others' lives.


When I showed my kids this photo which E took from his trip to Cambodia last year, my boys, especially the 4yo, were really curious. We talked about the possible lifestyle this boy (and his peers) may have, as compared to their own.

From time to time, my 4yo will ask me questions like ... Why must people be poor? Who will feed those children if their parents have no money to buy food? What happen to those poor people when they are sick? Will they get to see the doctor for free? Can the poor kids still go to school? Do they also have books and toys? If they have no toys, do they at least have a house to live in? etc etc.....

This year, I hope to organise something on various levels for charity. Whenever possible, I like to get the kids involved so they can understand and appreciate the concept of helping charitable causes and those in need. I am so excited that the first project is already in planning stage.