Last week I attended a stage production for Shakespeare called the Twelfth Night.
Two of my nephews and a niece took part.
They played their roles very well making all of us and their parents very proud of their performance.
I have never had the opportunity to see many Shakespeare plays in my life but I have been involved in some productions at college.
I know the huge number of hours and efforts they demand from the cast, support crew, the director and everyone that are involved.
What makes this night more amazing was that the whole production was put together in the space of only three weeks.
The first two weeks were used to learn their lines and the last week was spent rehearsing under the Director's guidance.
Sure, many people and parents worked hard to make it happen but for the fact that it was done in three weeks is an achievement in itself.
None of the performers especially those younger, forgot their lines.
I am not a Shakespeare expert by any stretch of the imagination, but the acting, the gestures, the expressions and accents were all executed professionally.
The props, the lighting, the costumes and the stage were all done to the highest standard.
Even the younger members of the cast who were as young as 4 years old, performed their parts elegantly.
It is an understatement to say that I was very proud of my niece and nephews.
Fact is, I was proud of all the children that took part that night.
The professionalism and showmanship they displayed in the two nights was impeccable.
It also got me thinking about the kind of experiences these kids are being introduced to.
All credit to their parents for giving them this experience.
Giving our children new experiences should be something all parents should try and do.
The effect on their self esteem and confidence should not be underestimated.
After the play, I made it my goal to go and congratulate all of them and not only the main performers.
We adults should think seriously about the impact our words and comments can have on people especially the young.
While not being ungrateful, my parents did the best they could with my upbringing but there are certain instances which still makes me cringe every time I think about them.
Some of those negative incidents were caused by people I looked up to.
Over the years I have learned to forget them or put them behind me, but they still pop up every so often.
I can only wonder how much of those negative incidents affected my character and outlook on life.
I prefer not to think about it as it can be extremely painful.
Instead, I have allowed God to heal me, for without Him, I honestly cannot know what I would be like today.
Negative comments can easily break someone, especially those who are kids.
The effect is multiplied if they look up to us as their mentors, parents or role models.
Think about that the next time you say something without thinking to children under your care.
Positive comments and encouragement on the other hand can build them up and improve their self confidence, self esteem and self belief.
I am not a psychologist but I know about positive reinforcement.
No doubt in my mind some of these kids will go on to become successful actors and actresses.
For those not inclined towards acting, they too will remember this night in a positive way.
These positive experiences will help create their dreams and characters one day when they grow up to be adults.
From now on, I will make an effort to go and see more productions involving children.
I may not be able to contribute to the lives of all the children in this world but I can have some positive influence on those related to me.
Another upside for me is that I have found a new interest.
I certainly never thought that Shakespeare plays can be so funny and stimulating.