Yes, I HATED whole learning process!

Thinking back, I realized that it was strict and pressurized formal music training that killed my interest and eventually, not wanting to touch a piano since then. Did I resent my mum for sending me to piano lessons? Probably not, although I could still recall agony whenever I was “coerced” to practice. I supposed my mum could have been more observant towards my change of attitudes before and after classes. So, mum and dad (yes, you!), please observe your kid’s behavior and attitudes when you send them for enrichment classes or just school, for that matter.

At end of day, it is your child’s joy of learning that would sustain his/her interest to excel if he/she chooses to. Bear in mind that force-feeding would only do more harm than good. As always, keep a balance in whatever you do for your child. Try to put yourself in their shoes. The joy of learning that you imbue in your child would outweigh anxiety (and fear!) that you put your child through to excel in a certain area.

Be mindful and stay balanced!

Reflect upon these Words of Wisdom:

"At times, it is difficult to keep a proper balance in our lives. But, over time, an improper balance will lead to problems."

Catherine Pulsifer

"Just as your car runs more smoothly and requires less energy to go faster and farther when wheels are in perfect alignment, you perform better when your thoughts, feelings, emotions, goals, and values are in balance."

Brian Tracy

The city of Potosi in Cordillera Oriental became well--known for huge silver deposits in its surroundings. Zinc, copper, and other ores were found there. Bolivia's tin deposits provided a large portion of country's export income throughout most of twentieth century. But in 1980's, tin reserves declined and that along with weak world prices reached point where Bolivia's antiquated mining methods forced industry to all but shut down.

Oil and gas are now accounting for an increasing portion of foreign revenues. Bolivia exports much of it gas to Argentina and Brazil. In return, Brazil is commtted to assisting development of corridor between Santa Cruz and Corumba, Brazil, in southeastern lowlands. It is here that commercial agriculture--especially soybeans--is on rise.

Comparatively democratic civilian rule was established in 1982, but leaders have faced difficult problems of deep-seated poverty, social unrest, and drug production. Current goals include attracting foreign investment, strengthening educational system, resolving disputes with coca growers over Bolivia's counterdrug efforts, and waging an anticorruption campaign. The country does have its problems, but it also has its optimism.