THE EDITOR, Madam:
IT IS true that in today's world the father often cannot spend as much time as he would like with his children. It is also true that the father's attitudes and example carry much weight and influence in the child's life.
Most parents have probably had the experience of having a child ask mother a question and, doubting her answer turn to father to be told the "truth". Father is usually regarded as the highest and final authority.
Psychologists tell us this is especially true in matters relating to religion and morals.
A father may not spend a lot of time with his children, but he is usually a child's major contact with the world outside. Whatever time the father spends at home is profitable in teaching his children the spiritual values by which he lives. The father when he is around if he insists on justice and fairness in family relationships, is helping his children to absorb wholesome attitudes and respect for other people.
A father has one other important way of teaching his children the value of knowing God and the importance His love and His laws have in their lives.
Fathers truly have a most important influence in the spiritual education of their children.
In our Jamaican society today a prevalent attitude is that the religious and spiritual training of children is best left to the mother.
A father's part is significant and essential.
I am, etc.,
ERROL MAYNE
Lot 434 30th Street
Daytona
Greater Portmore
