Change mindsets and morals
THE first month of a New Year has quickly passed. Children have gone back to school and adults back into the hustle and bustle of daily living. To many, the spirit of the festive season has become a memory.
It is so sad that we are developing into a society that forges ahead with all its might – thinking that progress means becoming techno junkies or obtaining more through material accumulation.
With this mindset, we are rapidly forgetting the real meaning of life and what aspects brings us inner joy.
As a parent, I often self-reflect and gauge my depth of priorities and responsibilities. Over the years I have learned that parenting is by far not an easy road. Nurturing young children both physically and emotionally is a tall order. Be that as it may, one of the real issues that faces the future generation is the fast-paced moral degradation of society.
This is attributed to so many factors that place children at the negative core of the after-effects. Nowadays, lines are blurred with no clear idea of morality, of what exactly is right or wrong. A sizeable number of parents have abdicated their responsibility of parenting and we see how this negatively impacts children.
The Vedas point out how the age of Kali Yuga (current time-frame) brings about moral degradation and social ills. Corruption, unwanted progeny, abuse and violence will become accepted within society. Media headlines point out that this is happening and we snigger at it, almost something that is expected nowadays. What then happens to the children who are raised within these societal trends and know no better?
Back in the day families were close-knit with a strong moral focus. Extended families were a part of the norm and the space for more to be included within the home was never an issue.
Neighbours and friends become family and children played freely on the pavements after school. At that time it did take an entire village to raise a child, and that remains true today also.
However, times have changed and homes are now divided by raised walls, and schedules are tight that typical appointment-style meetings occur between families.
Living as part of an extended family is hardly heard off nowadays as migration is a key factor in job seeking. Thus far, we are barely getting away with this change, but I am sure with the current high tide, this will not be for much longer. We need to make an active change, and the time is now.
We see how this plague is sweeping through our neighbourhood with each and every one of us (directly or otherwise) being affected.
We can go on discussing the negative connotation that comes with this age of quarrel and hypocrisy but what exactly can be done to elevate this consciousness?
Understanding that the moral high ground is necessary to make a difference is all our responsibility. As adults, we need to set correct examples for our children – not by merely telling them what to do, but rather by showing them. In the eyes of a child, the parent is the role model and whatever the parent does is correct.
In the life of a child, every single family member is important and the time we offer our children is invaluable. No amount of monetary gestures, grand gifts or treats will ever come close to spending quality time with our children. Take time, every evening to connect with your child – offer undivided attention not in between tasks.
As a parent and teacher – I see the importance of this aspect daily.
Should we all pitch in, we can curb the onslaught of moral degradation.
It is our responsibility to set a fine example and make a conscious effort to make a difference.
Whether in the capacity of a parent, a family member, friend or neighbour – by just reaching out to do good – we can take small steps to help a bigger problem.
The power rests within us to make a difference, a positive one.
Krsangi Radhe is a teacher by profession, qualified public relations practitioner, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and humanitarian. She is especially passionate about women and children’s issues. Follow her on Instagram and Facebook: prabashneepillai or her blog: prabashneenaidoo.wordpress.com