Find out causes for indiscipline

We have seen a deterioration in our value system. We used to be a value based society and unfortunately the open economic policies made a massive shift in the mindset of the people.

In this process of hoarding, the "family unit" the very foundation of a society unconsciously drifts away from the core family values that fed the society. In essense, it's incumbent upon parents to teach patiance, empathy, to face defeat and victory, success and failure and above all love and respect each other and the environment. In the money based society today, respect for one another and the environment is virtually non-existent.

I still remember a "pep talk" that was given to us by our headmaster just before we left on our first scout camp to Wellavaya. He said, now you must make sure when you leave the camp site, you leave it "in tact" and "leave it a better place". These words uttered in an era when Green Globe was not fading unlike today. These words still echo in my ears.

Unfortunately I don't see many young people do this. We were made to stand up as a mark of respect when seniors, parents walked in. Todate when someone comes to me and if I am seated, I will stand up as a mark of respect. When offering a glass of water, the traditional way is to place it on a underliner and unfortunately that has died a natural death.

We all should stop to ponder, exit the rat race, as the very purpose of life does not mean in becoming a professional but a person with good values who can make a positive contribution to the society. Let us go back in time, let us go back to the value based society.

Upul Arunajith