Parents are usually the ones who help lay the foundation for our future. From investing in our early education to cheering us on during milestones, they often play a key role in shaping who we become. But sadly, that’s not always the case. Sometimes, the people we expect to protect us are the very ones who hold us back.
One person opened up about such a betrayal, how their own mother and brother hid college acceptance letters from them. What followed was a life of struggle, missed opportunities, and painful realizations. Keep reading to find out what happened and how they dealt with the truth when it finally came out.
Image credits: Zinkevych_D / envatoelements (not the actual photo)
Image credits: MargJohnsonVA / envatoelements (not the actual photo)
Image credits: tommyandone / envatoelements (not the actual photo)
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Access to education shapes minds, not just resumes
Having access to education is a privilege many of us often take for granted. According to UNESCO’s 2023 report, a staggering 250 million children across the globe are currently out of school. Even more startling is the fact that 16% of children and youth from primary to upper secondary levels are not enrolled at all. The reasons vary, from poverty and conflict to deep-rooted systemic inequalities.
But the value of education goes far beyond securing a job. At its core, education shapes the way we think, understand the world, and interact with others. These skills are essential for navigating adulthood, relationships, and society at large.
It also shapes the way we see ourselves and others. It builds emotional intelligence, empathy, and communication skills that are crucial to personal and professional relationships. A classroom can be more than a space for grades, it can be the first place where someone feels seen, heard, and empowered.
When people say education opens doors, they mean it literally and figuratively. Higher education often leads to better-paying jobs, greater security, and opportunities for advancement.
Education is also one of the most powerful tools for promoting equality. It breaks down long-standing barriers to mobility and offers everyone, regardless of their background, a shot at something better. At a national level, an educated population drives innovation and economic prosperity. A well-educated workforce increases productivity, generates new ideas, and fosters global competitiveness.
In many ways, education strengthens entire communities. It teaches people to think, feel, and behave in ways that contribute to their own growth and the development of those around them. Educated individuals often take part in civic engagement, uplift others, and help solve local problems with informed insight.
To understand the roadblocks that often stand in the way of a child’s academic journey, we spoke to Minakshi Pravin Walke, ex-Principal at the Indian Education Society’s school. “We have children from all sorts of backgrounds,” she said. “In many cases, families don’t have the financial means to continue their child’s schooling. When that happens, we try to counsel them and connect them with options for scholarships or other funding avenues.”
She explained that money isn’t the only concern. “Sometimes, parents feel their child isn’t doing well academically, so they think continuing school is pointless. They see it as a poor investment.” These beliefs, she noted, are often rooted in misunderstanding rather than neglect. That’s where schools step in, with guidance sessions to help families understand that learning is not linear and progress can still be made with the right support.
“We have regular counseling,” Minakshi added. “It helps both children and parents see the bigger picture. Education isn’t just about marks, it’s about long-term growth.” Often, families are influenced by peers or neighbors. “They might see someone pulling their child out of school to start earning, and think, maybe we should too. But while that brings immediate money, it limits future potential. We show them how education can be the bigger payoff.”
Sometimes, all it takes is a little perspective. “You don’t need long lectures,” she smiled. “Just show parents how, in the long run, investing in a child’s education can completely change their future. That understanding grows with time and the right support.”
In this particular case, the author lost out on a life-changing opportunity because of their own family’s actions. Was it fair? What would you have done in their shoes? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
People were absolutely appalled
