Patriarchy has been a prevalent problem in society that has stopped women from achieving their true potential for the longest time. But women have broken convention time and again set the right example for others to follow.
Right from doctors, engineers, architects, accountants, actors, women can do anything and everything, and they even go a step further and manage responsibilities at home, care for children and even the elderly.
Of course, dads do all of this too. But mums have always been seen to take on more tasks, and even science agrees.
When the women of the house manage to achieve so much and then some, it’s inspiring to see their partners stand in support of them.
That’s exactly what Jonathan Thio did recently when he posted an inspiring tribute for his wife.
Kailin Ng is an inspiring Singaporean mum, who has managed to excel professionally and personally taking care of the home and four kids, as well as a prison for women.
Yes, the only one of its kind on the island.
Superintendent Of A4, The Only Female Prison In Singapore
Image Source: Ministry of Home Affairs, Singapore
In a post on LinkedIn, Jonathan wrote, “My wife is the Superintendent of A4, the only female prison in Singapore.”
He explains that his wife is known as Madam at work and her staff respects and adores her.
“At home, she is a wife, mother of four and the embodiment of love and grit, spending many sleepless nights juggling between work and taking care of our little ones.”
“I celebrate the success she enjoys at work and am thankful for the leadership opportunities given to her by her organisation. Women lend a different flavour and strength to the team and those who can lead should be empowered to do so,” he adds.
“As husbands, we should not be afraid to admit our better half is indeed better than us and sometimes take a step back to give them the support they need and deserve. Our career accomplishments do not define who we are and insecurity certainly has no place in a healthy relationship,” Thio notes.
Adding, “We need to debunk the myth that it’s an either-or situation when it comes to family and career. We can strike this fine balance of family and career. There will be trade-offs and personal sacrifices due to constraint of resources but we determine the best outcome we are prepared to accept for our children and live with it.”
Parenting is teamwork
Jonathan goes on to write, “Parenting is like leading a team. You set the direction and the tone. We are never afraid to get our hands dirty in setting the right culture and values. No matter how tired we are, my wife and I will spend time to bond with our children in our daily storytelling and family prayer time. When it comes to nurturing, you cannot outsource your responsibility and accountability to someone else. You need to be hands-on.”
“Our Christian faith is the bedrock of our marriage and supported by the pillars of commitment, trust, respect and love. My wife might hold a senior position at work but at home, we are clearly aware of the different roles we are playing in the family,” he writes.
“It’s not so much about equality but more so doing the work that we have been designed to do; not one replacing the other, or one competing against the other. It is in us flourishing in our distinct roles that allow the family room for growth and healthy relationships,” he further notes.
Talking about the year that was, Thio sys, “The past one year has not been easy for most parents and we reckon there will be parents who might not be as fortunate as us to have such understanding bosses and employers and to have the support that we do from our families.”
“We would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the many Superhero moms and dads out there who have to overcome all odds to make things happen at work and in taking care of their children during this pandemic period. They might not be featured but undoubtedly, they are the unsung heroes in the lives of the next generation.”
There is a saying that goes, “Behind every successful woman is a man.” I count myself lucky to be that man. Well done Kailin and you have made us proud!”
Users Find The Post Inspiring And Adorable
Other users found the LinkedIn post about the mother Singapore adorable and went on to congratulate the couple.
One user wrote, “Your wife is such an inspiration, Jonathan Thio! Salute to Madam Supt Ng!”
Another one commented, “Congratulations. Glad to see a proud dad of 4 and a Husband. best wishes to your family.”
Who Is Kailin Ng?
Image Source: Ministry of Home Affairs, Singapore
The mother, Singapore now knows about, is the Superintendent Institution A4 – Singapore’s only female prison. She has been in service for 13 years so far.
As a Captain of Lives, she works together with a team of 99 personnel to ensure the safe custody and rehabilitation of about 1,000 inmates.
She is also a mother to three boys and recently welcomed her fourth child, a little baby girl.
Congratulations to this wonderful couple, who together prove that a supportive partner can make all the difference – making it one of the key factors of a successful marriage.
7 Ways To Become A Supportive Partner
As you know, marriage like any process is ever-evolving and you do learn something new every day about your partner. The important thing then is to be as supportive as possible to become a pillar of support for each other.
It’s also a two-way street, as Thio shared. Respect and support need to flow either way, only then will any relationship become strong and stand the test of time. Here are seven ways one can be a supportive partner to their spouse.
- Be supportive of their choices whether it is about changing jobs, learning something new or trying something different.
- Don’t be dismissive of their problems or insecurities, no matter how trivial it may sound. Give a lending ear when necessary.
- Make your partner feel respected and that comes from making them a priority in your life. It also means taking their opinion into consideration and making decisions that work in favour of both individuals.
- Being in a marriage or together isn’t about spending the whole time with each other. Every person needs their space and you need to give it to them time and again. Meanwhile, you too need to take a break and work towards your own well-being.
- Be an active participant in the house. Help out with the chores, take responsibility for things, put the kids to school. Divide your time between each other so neither feels burdened.
- Communicate as often as possible. Don’t like something? Say it. Did your partner’s hurt you in an argument? Let them know. A relationship will last a lifetime only when you tell each other things about each other.
- It’s okay to make mistakes, as long as you are willing to correct them. Not every day will be supportive and happy. There will be bad days too. But the thing to remember is that you should be willing to work on things including your relationship in order to make things work.
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