I know I'm supposed to be the wind beneath their wings and all that. But sometimes I wonder if allowing hopes to fly high is always the best I can do for my sons.
Nine-year-old Joel is excited about the prospect of the upcoming TV talent competition South Africa's Got Talent which apparently has no age limit. All he sees is the possibility of singing in front of a huge audience, quickly followed by adulation, success and fame.
But following last week's Idols confusion, all I can think of is the possible potential for hurt feelings and criticism in a very public forum.
One failed audition would be okay, but what if he succeeds and reaches a higher level, only then to fail, or even more scary, succeed and become the subject of public scrutiny that isn't always kind?
Should we protect children from their heart's desire, and up to what age? I'm not sure. What are your thoughts?
P.S. A while back we asked for your best Whhyyyy? stories, with the promise of a T-shirt to the best one. The winner is Joanne, who had to answer some hard questions about our new president.
Nine-year-old Joel is excited about the prospect of the upcoming TV talent competition South Africa's Got Talent which apparently has no age limit. All he sees is the possibility of singing in front of a huge audience, quickly followed by adulation, success and fame.
But following last week's Idols confusion, all I can think of is the possible potential for hurt feelings and criticism in a very public forum.
One failed audition would be okay, but what if he succeeds and reaches a higher level, only then to fail, or even more scary, succeed and become the subject of public scrutiny that isn't always kind?
Should we protect children from their heart's desire, and up to what age? I'm not sure. What are your thoughts?
P.S. A while back we asked for your best Whhyyyy? stories, with the promise of a T-shirt to the best one. The winner is Joanne, who had to answer some hard questions about our new president.