Our Child Ambassador Russell Webb has penned a heartfelt message for his newborn niece and all children in Hong Kong this Children’s Day!
Dear Scarlett,
As we celebrate Children’s Day, I want to take a moment to reflect on the joy and wonder that you bring into so many people’s lives. Despite being only 5 weeks old, you and your smile, have already captured our hearts and filled our lives with such love and happiness.
You, my dear, like every child in Hong Kong, are a precious gift. A symbol of hope and possibility for the future. Every time I hold you, I am reminded of the beauty, innocence and promise that childhood represents.
As you will undoubtedly grow and explore the world around you, I want to reiterate that you are surrounded by incredible people. You have a beautiful mother and father. You are blessed with two sets of wise and loving grandparents. You have uncles and aunts who will always offer support and guidance, and this is only 5 weeks in!
Now, as of today you haven’t got a clue what I do, but I play rugby for Hong Kong and we are heading into one of the biggest weekends of the year: The Hong Kong Rugby Sevens. When I was young, it was my dream to play for Hong Kong in the Hong Kong Sevens and I’m going to do just that again this weekend.
As it is also the 50th anniversary since Hong Kong opened its doors to Migrant Domestic Workers, I think it’s important for me to spend a second to share my gratitude for two very special ladies whose contributions have been invaluable in helping me achieve my dream. Like so many amazing Migrant Domestic Workers around Hong Kong, Blandy and Charit’s unwavering encouragement, support and endless love have been instrumental in my successes as an athlete and more importantly, as a person. I could not envision my life without them both and I feel so incredibly fortunate, and forever grateful, to have them in my life. So to all migrant workers in Hong Kong, thank you for your contributions, love and commitments to so many families here, as your hard work and dedication is what makes the future generations of Hong Kong look so bright.
As I continue to train and work hard for my upcoming tournaments, I want to dedicate this 7s weekend to you Scarlett, and to all the children in Hong Kong. My sincere hope on this Children’s Day, is for you all to discover your strengths, your passions, and weaknesses.
As an athlete, I have experienced both wins and losses, highs, and lows in my career. Whilst there is no better feeling than winning, it is important to remember that losing is part and parcel of the game, and in fact some of the most valuable lessons can be learnt from a loss. Failure is a bruise, not a tattoo. Never be afraid to fail as failure is where we as individuals learn and grow the most.
Scarlett, don’t be afraid to dream big and be true to yourself. You have the power to make a difference in the world, and I can’t wait to see all the amazing things that you will accomplish. You are a shining star, and I am, like everyone in our family, so grateful to have you in my life.
With all my love,
Uncle Russell
Pathfinders’ Child Ambassador