“One of the biggest issues today is our disconnect from nature—a trend that alarmingly extends even to younger generations.” Robin Nguyen
Part Ten: Every Successful Child Needs Passion
A few weeks ago, my daughter looked up at me and said, “Papa, I don’t know why, but lately I really enjoy playing the piano.” I asked, “Why?” She shrugged. “Before, I learned only because you taught me and wanted me to. Now… I just love it.” I smiled and replied, “That’s passion taking root.”
Passion doesn’t appear overnight. As I’ve noted, every child is born with seeds of potential that need the right environment to blossom. From the very first piano lesson, I sensed my daughter’s musical spark—and I nurtured it. Over time, that spark grew into genuine enthusiasm.
Each child carries unique seeds—whether for music, languages, art or science. Our task is to discover those seeds and place them in soil that encourages growth. When children thrive in environments tailored to their interests, their talents unfold far more quickly. In Eastern culture, this is why teachers are so deeply respected.
Children don’t need flawless instructors; they need mentors who can inspire them. I’ve seen countless students who once dreaded English transform into eager language lovers simply because a teacher made the subject come alive.
Sometimes a seed waits for a challenge to germinate. I remember Grade 7: I was the worst English student in class, and my teacher, frustrated by my absence from extra tutorials. Yet after a year of faltering through essays, I borrowed old textbooks and taught myself English intensively. From that point on, I was the top English student through all of K–12 and English language learning became my passion.
Passion is more powerful than raw talent alone. When we help children find what truly excites them—and give them the space to cultivate it—we empower them to succeed.
Author: Robin Nguyen
