Write a story ending with the words: I wish I had listened to my father. This question was asked in private wassce 2024 second series English language exam.
Contents
Write a story ending with the words: I wish I had listened to my father
THE CONSEQUENCES OF IGNORING WISDOM
There was a time when I thought I knew better than everyone else. As a teenager, I was filled with the desire to prove myself, to assert my independence and make my own decisions. My father, a man of wisdom and experience, always seemed to give advice that, at the time, appeared outdated and irrelevant to my fast paced life. But as I would later learn, ignoring his counsel would lead to consequences that could have been avoided.
It all started when I decided to buy my first car. My father had always warned me about the importance of saving money and being cautious with big purchases. He told me to choose a used car that was reliable and affordable, something that wouldn’t drain my savings. However, I was caught up in the excitement of owning a shiny, new car. I had my heart set on a brand-new sports car, something that would turn heads and make a statement. I couldn’t see past the thrill of owning it.
Despite my father’s repeated warnings, I went ahead and bought the car. It was expensive, flashy, and everything I had ever wanted. At first, I felt on top of the world. My friends were impressed, and I felt a sense of accomplishment, thinking that I had made a grown-up decision. But soon, the joy of driving a brand-new car faded. The monthly payments began to take a toll on my finances. The insurance was higher than I had anticipated, and the maintenance costs were more than I had budgeted for. I found myself struggling to keep up with the expenses.
One day, while driving home from work, the car broke down on the side of the road. It was a minor mechanical failure, but the repair costs were far more than I could afford. I had to take out a loan to cover the repair, and it felt like I was digging myself deeper into a financial hole. The stress and worry began to mount, and I realized that the car I had once thought was a symbol of success had become a burden.
That was when I remembered my father’s words. He had warned me that flashy possessions, while exciting at first, often come with hidden costs. He had advised me to make a thoughtful decision, to consider the long term implications of my choices. But in my arrogance, I had dismissed his advice, thinking I knew better.
As the days passed, I found myself reflecting on my decisions. I wished I had listened to my father. His wisdom, though seemingly outdated at the time, was grounded in experience. He had seen others make similar mistakes and had learned from his own past. If I had only followed his advice, I could have avoided the financial strain and the constant worry.
In the end, I learned a valuable lesson. While independence is important, it is also crucial to listen to those who have more experience, especially when they offer advice with the best of intentions. I wish I had listened to my father.
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Why Students Will Find This Story Important
The story is not about the cars or finances, per se, but about being able to listen to one’s parents, teachers, or mentors when they care enough to give advice about important life decisions. While students are at that level in their lives where the ability to make independent choices is very significant, being too independent can sometimes allow mistakes to happen that just should not have occurred.
Here is why this lesson is important to you:
1. Your Parents and Mentors Have Experience
They have been through things with which you have not yet struggled. Much of their guidance is from experience and lessons learned in the hard way. You may make the very same mistakes about which they are trying to counsel you if you don’t heed their wisdom.
2. Impulsive Decisions Can Have Long-Term Effects
Like in the story, impulsive decisions-money, friends, and studies-can have longer consequences than one had speculated. Always take time to think things through.
3. Learning to Listen Shows Maturity
Being able to pause, consider advice, and apply it shows that you are indeed maturing into a responsible adult. It is not a weakness but a sign of wisdom.
4. Academic and Life Success Often Come from Guidance
Be it preparing for WAEC, NECO, or any other exams, tips from teachers, older siblings, or peers can make a huge difference. Not taking their tips might cost you valuable marks or opportunities.
How Students Can Apply This Lesson in Real Life
- In Your Studies: Listen to your teachers when they emphasize key topics or suggest study methods. They know what works and what doesn’t.
- Decision Making: Whether it is the selection of a career or the management of time, always seek advice from those with experience.
- Friendships: If a trusted adult warns you about friends or behavior, take their advice seriously. They may see risks you don’t.
- Finances: Learn financial discipline early. Save money, avoid unnecessary spending, and always think long term.
Takeaway for Students
This story teaches a timeless lesson: independence doesn’t mean ignoring wisdom. The people who truly care about you like your parents or teachers want to see you succeed. Their advice might not always seem exciting or modern, but it comes from a place of experience and love.
Next time anyone gives you advice, just stop and really listen to what they say. It may save you from saying, “I wish I had listened to them.
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Kolade Kayode, known as Mr. KK, I am a Nigerian education blogger and founder of MasterWAEC.com. Passionate about student success, I simplifies WAEC exam preparation with accurate tips and resources to help students excel.