“Favoritism is the sin of society. You show bias for one, pulling down efforts of many.” – Chitra
One word, one decision, one action, one award … for the wrong reasons = immeasurable damage. In a performance-driven world where children are distinguished from a young age as achievers or non-achievers (according to worldly standards), one would expect qualified performance assessors to place integrity, fairness and objectivity at the top of their list of character traits.
Is that too much to ask? Is it too far-fetched to expect authority to be exercised correctly? Is it too difficult to set personal preferences aside and face the facts? Or is it the power of authority – the ability to build up or break down at the expense of others?
Blatant dishonesty and unfairness in full view of the crowd – all for the “golden child”, who is often favoured without deserving it. It comes at a high price.
It is a stripping away. Layer by layer, the “golden child” is robbed of character development. They receive what is not rightfully theirs. The true state of affairs is covered up. You do not have to work harder or behave yourself on the sports field. The award is yours – regardless. It is a lie. You are also lying to yourself.
The “high-achieving hare”, who truly deserves the award and recognition, is broken down piece by piece. Children are not stupid! They know what the truth is. Why must strong children step aside so that a person in power can have their way? Give recognition where it is truly deserved. What would it take for “Mr and Mrs Power” to rise above their egos and do the right thing?
By depriving a child of what is rightfully theirs, you cultivate disrespect, a lack of credibility and distrust. Why be surprised when a child acts accordingly? Please do not expect achievement to grow from this.
James 2:1 does not warn against this kind of behaviour for no reason. We must build up, not break down.
Life is not fair. What part do you play in that?
Written by Annemarie Smit