By Manjola Lloja Bushati/ Do you remember Mary Poppins? The not-so-ordinary nanny who travels with an umbrella and who taught us that "with a little sugar, the medicine goes down easily" has arrived at the Puppet Theater in Tirana.
I have to say that at first I was a little surprised that the Christmas show didn't have Santa and presents. But today, as I watched the premiere, my surprise completely faded. I'll tell you why. But first, let me give a little insight for those who may not know anything about this famous book and then movie.
The book “Mary Poppins”, written in 1934 by British author PL Travers, tells the story of an unusual nanny who comes to the Banks family to take care of the children, bringing order, imagination and magical adventures to their daily lives. Through these experiences, children learn discipline, responsibility and the importance of balance between order and fantasy. At the same time, the book implies that parents are often busy and not present enough in the lives of children, which creates the need for a figure like Mary Poppins. However, the author conveys the message that no nanny can replace the role of parents and that their presence, attention and emotional involvement are essential for the healthy development of children.
This is in London in 1934.
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Watching the show, as my daughter clapped to the rhythm of the songs sung by Venera Lumani (Mary Poppins is interpreted by her in this show), my mind wandered.
How relevant is this message today?
How important is the presence of parents in raising children well?
How present are we and how often do we think that the material goods we provide can "buy" our physical absence?
I don't believe there is any of us who doesn't know these things.
The presence of parents in children's lives is essential because it gives them emotional security, love and support, positively influencing their mental, emotional and social development. Through our presence and example, we as parents help them form values, good behavior, self-confidence and social skills. This support helps children better cope with life's challenges and build a healthy future.
But every now and then it seems to slip our minds...as if we find an easier excuse for our physical absence, or our lack of attention.
So amidst the songs and emotions of the young artists who have a lot of weight in the show, the child spectators enjoy and applaud. And us adults? We need to think a little longer.
This year-end show at the Puppet Theater doesn't have to be about Christmas trees and presents. Mary Poppins is still relevant almost 100 years later. She reminds us that the greatest gift we can give our children is the time we spend with them. And the end of the year is the best time to start this gift!
