Brother and sister Quote by Lian Tanner
““The people of jewel," said Olga Ciavolga,"treat their children like delicate flowers. They think they will not survive without constant protection. But there are parts of the world where young boys and girls spend weeks at a time with no company except a herd of goats. They chase away wolves. They take care of themselves, and they take care of the herd. And so, when hard times come - as they always do in the end - those children are resourceful and brave. If they have to walk from one end of the county to the other, carrying their baby brother and sisters, they will do it. If they have to hide during the day and travel at night to avoid soldiers, they will do it. They do not give up easily." The tunnel took a sharp right-hand turn and, for a moment, the old woman s voice was lost. Something dropped onto Goldie's arm, and she opened her mouth to yelp - and thought of those children carrying their baby brothers and sisters through the night - and closed her mouth and kept going. She rounded the corner in time to hear Olga Ciavolga murmur,"Of course, I am not saying that it is a good thing to give children such heavy responsibility's. They must be allowed to have a childhood. But they must also be allowed to find their courage and their wisdom, and learn when to stand and when to run away. After all, if they are not permitted to climb the trees, how will they ever see the great and wonderful world that lies before them?””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea by Axie Oh, 2022
Children raised in harsh environments develop resilience and resourcefulness, but they also need space for a normal childhood and guidance.
In simple terms: Hardship builds strength, yet children still need a safe, supportive upbringing.
Balance responsibility with protection for children.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- rural hardship
- conflict zones
- family caregiving
- education
- community support
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies protect children while fostering resilience?
- What support systems help balance duty and play?
Too much responsibility can stunt emotional growth and cause trauma.