Wanted: Sane Parents

by Ven. J.M. Dharmakara Boda, Mahabodhi Maitri Mandala, Los Angeles, The Buddhist Channel, July 20, 2007

In the article "Wanted: Tibetan Nannies", it was stated that child-care
workers from Tibet are "very balanced and Zen".

What world are we living in? Apparently one that subscribes to the Twilight Zone as if it's a mantra. Should we add Tibetan nannies to the list with pet rocks or to the list which includes such status symbols as designer purses?

I have an idea... why don't we add the quest for a Tibetan nanny to the list of suitable reasons to deem a parent as being unfit to raise their child? The first priority of a mother should be the welfare of the child, not seeking out a nanny by cultural identity as a status symbol.

While there is no reason whatsoever for why a Tibetan woman should not be considered as a possible nanny, there are many reasons why a person should not be considered a suitable parent and this is one of them.

I have even a better idea... why don't mothers (and fathers) spend more time with their children, place the same value in these young minds that they place in their investment portfolios and careers --- or have children at all.

There is a young Korean family which I know and have become more or less an extended member of. They have three children: a 14 year old girl, a six year old boy, and now a new born male infant. On top of the demands of child rearing, they also have a grocery store that they have opened up and have invested heavily in it.

Yes, they're also looking for a part-time nanny for their new born, but they're not looking at the cultural or ethnic makeup of the individual --- they're looking for the most suitable nanny, placing the needs and welfare of the child first, not looking for status symbols or side-stepping their responsibilities as parents.

Searching for a nanny by cultural or ethnic identity.... Where is Dr. Phil when you need him?
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