Smile and Let Smile

Translated from a post by Aminath Gasim, The Happiness Club on https://sun.mv/authors/256

On October 12, 2024, Sun Podcast aired the second episode of the “#SmileShihab” podcast series, titled “Gulhigen.” This series is conducted by the Happiness Club to promote societal happiness. The special guest for this episode was Zain, the School Captain of Muhyiddeen School and a member of the Children and Young Group of “Villijoali.”

1. The Importance of Children’s Happiness

The episode focused on the theme “Children and Happiness,” emphasizing the critical importance of ensuring that children experience happiness. Zain noted that today’s children will be the adults who run the country tomorrow. Therefore, nurturing happiness in children is essential for fostering stable and well-rounded adults.

2. Zain’s Personal Journey

Zain shared his earliest memories, which took him back to China. Although born in the Maldives, Zain moved to China with his family when he was just one and a half years old, due to his father’s studies abroad. He vividly described the cold winters in China and his eagerness to take walks in the snow.

After returning to the Maldives, Zain attended Qalam International Preschool in Vilimale. He recalled being a very shy, obedient, and disciplined child. However, one memory that stands out is a day when a teacher spoke harshly to him, leaving him feeling sad. Currently, Zain attends Muhyiddin School, which he described as very different from other schools in the Maldives. He said that the unity within the school and the positive relationships between students, teachers, and parents create an exemplary environment.

3. Building Confidence and the Role of Parents

Zain’s confidence was evident throughout the podcast. When asked about the source of his confidence, Zain credited his mother. Her encouragement, loving advice, and close relationship with him have played a pivotal role in shaping his confidence. Despite being a shy child in his early years, Zain has grown into a confident young individual who believes in himself.

Parents play an indispensable role in building self-confidence in children. Zain’s experience exemplifies the impact of diligent, cooperative, and courageous parents. His mother’s support and upbringing have been instrumental in his development into a confident and self-assured individual.

4. Friendship and Societal Happiness

Among the things associated with Zain’s happiness is the time spent with friends. He joyfully spoke about going for walks, visiting the beach, and spending time with friends in Villimale. Zain highlighted that friendship brings happiness and encouragement in life. He has many friends, including some very close ones, and values the moments spent discussing studies, life, and current issues.

To create a happy society, Zain emphasized the importance of providing joyful opportunities for children and fostering a peaceful environment. He noted that pleasant environments like Vilimale play a significant role in maintaining unity and friendship. However, Zain observed that the level of friendship seen in communities today is decreasing compared to the past. He suggested that people need to learn to work together to maintain these relationships.

5. The Influence of Activities and Relationships

Zain attributed some of his personal traits to activities like Scouts, where he met children from other countries and learned from their experiences. He fondly recalled a game played by Japanese children during the cultural day of the Jamboree. Among sports, Zain particularly enjoys football.

Zain highlighted the role of school competitions in shaping personality. He believes that opportunities to participate in such activities are vital for children’s development. Establishing an environment where children can take initiative and work empowers them to prepare for life. Muhyiddeen School stands as an exemplary institution in this regard.

Maintaining relationships requires love and friendship, not just between parents and children, but also between teachers and students, and individuals in society. Love is the fundamental characteristic that should exist in all relationships. Zain emphasized that his popularity among people stems from his respectful interactions with others, a value instilled in him by his mother and teachers.

Meaningful Relationships and Happiness

In Zain’s view, an enabling environment significantly contributes to societal happiness. He highlighted that this beauty is prominently visible in the islands of the atolls, where a peaceful and caring environment still exists.

Overall, Zain’s happiness is closely linked to his relationships with natural resources, parents, relatives, friends, school, teachers, and the joy derived from social activities. He believes that happiness is born out of relationships and urges people to make good use of their time to establish and appreciate these connections. Zain advised recognizing the importance of these moments in one’s life and making them satisfying and happy experiences.