The Burden of Age
Why does man struggle?
So
as to have a comfortable existence during his old age. Man is born; he gets
educated and is embroiled in the constantly evolving struggle called life. But
before he knows it, he has turned old and dependent and his life is not as he
imagined it to be. Providing comfort to these individuals is not only the
responsibility of their children but also the duty of every individual as
educated members of society.
As one grows old, being in the company of
his peers provides him with a great sense of belonging and happiness. In such a
situation, old age homes cater to the needs of elderly citizens, providing the
perfect atmosphere for a peaceful life. However, spending time with one’s
children and teaching their grandchildren the values required in life is one of
the most enriching experiences that an individual could have during his
lifetime.
Sadly, elderly citizens are often considered
an economic and social burden by their children and in such a situation, they
are shunted into old-age homes.
For the vast majority of Non-Resident
Indians, old-age homes provide the perfect avenue for washing their hands off
any responsibility towards their parents by providing ample security and
opportunities for a joyful time. The sea change visible in Indian culture,
chiefly due to the growing influence of Western civilization, has had many
effects such as growth in nuclear families, which has made old age homes an
integral cog in our social structure.
The elderly citizens of our nation are
those who have immensely contributed to the development of the nation during
their heyday. Turning our backs on them in their most critical hour would go
against all the values that our social relationships are based upon.
It is often said that blood is thicker than
water. The bonds of family may be tested during times of hardship but they are
never broken. Having the support of a loving family is a great boon, which is
successful in lifting an individual even in the most trying times.
After all, love thy
family, love thy self.
It is obvious after reading your blog, that your heart is in the right place. A relative, who had lost her mother, wished she had more years with her...to show more love, more gratitude, more appreciation. She had lovingly cared for her mother for a long time very patiently. It is often when we lose a loved one, we realise their importance.
ReplyDeleteComing to the other point, many youngsters have moved to places away from their native homes and even to foreign shores leaving the elders to fend for themselves. The elders too are unwilling to give up their control and household as they have always taken all decisions and are unwilling to give up their independence. So in short, sometimes, the children are confused about how to help?
Thank you for your comment.
ReplyDeleteIt may be true that at times children might themselves be unsure of what to do. But all that matters is that there be genuine respect and love for one's parents. In such a case any action taken with the right purpose in mind, will definitely have better consequences.
Age is just a number. You can be "young at heart" despite being officially old or be in your early twenties and still see only negativity in life. Undeniably, all of us are plagued by time related physical disabilities and yes, we should never consider an older person as outdated. Likewise,seniors should also make their experience available to society thereby benefitting everyone.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your comment, I endorse your views completely.
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