Last Friday's STAR's front-page story was a clear indication that children should be taken seriously when they try to share information with adults. No matter how crazy the story may sound, be sure to give a patient listening hear and then instruct the youngsters in wisdom.

The story revealed how a five-year-old boy at a Westmoreland school brought a weapon to school and vowed to shoot a schoolmate for eating with his 'girlfriend'. The teacher the child was speaking with, initially thought the youngster was talking crazy until he brought his bag to her and showed her the 9mm pistol.

Now, we do not want to wonder what would have actually taken place at that school had the youngster acted on what he was speaking of doing; we are just glad that the teacher took time to listen and speak to the child. That may have ultimately spared a life.

There are so many issues that this one matter brings to the fore. It highlights a plethora of ills that spread through the society like wildfire. The matter we are looking at, however, is the importance of listening to a child.

We know that at times their small talk may not make much sense to you, but there is no telling what important emotion is being expressed by the lads in their simple lines. You may very well have the answer that would have made them a better man or woman, but you cannot fully know unless you really listen, can you?

So please, listen to the children.