How do you educate your children about the importance of gratitude?
For a Malaysian comedian, Johan, the best way to “teach” his son this lesson was to send him to an orphanage.
The decision came after Sodiq, his second son, had a hard time sharing his belongings, including his food, with anyone, even his family members.
In a viral video, the father of five children explained that the move was made solely for educational purposes.
“Sodiq is one of my children who can’t share. He can’t share food, spoons, water, or towels. He can’t share all these things. To him, once they’re touched, they’re dirty,” Johan said.
Sodiq and his brother stayed at the orphanage for three days
After Sodiq made a mistake recently with his younger brother, he took them both to an orphanage for three days. Even the orphanage staff were confused as to why Johan sent his children there.
According to Johan, the approach taken was effective and brought about positive change.
“He now listens to instructions easily and can share”
After returning from the orphanage, Sodiq was notably more open and willing to share with his other siblings.
Johan shared that while no parent wants to see their child suffer, he wanted his child to experience the reality of an orphanage, so that he could learn. As a father, Johan is happy to see that his “lesson plan” was fruitful.
“The impact since he came back is that he follows instructions easily and can share,” Johan said.
He added that Sodiq will now even offer others a drink first — a significant change for a child who previously wouldn’t touch a cup if someone else had used it.
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