Saluting our Past, Caring for our Future

Contemporary society is a sick and sad one. We live in a time where the physical, sexual and emotional abuse of children is commonplace; the banality and frequency of such misdeeds have dulled the senses such that it is no longer startling when such stories make headlines. How did we arrive at such a state? What went wrong? Can this problem be solved? It is critical that we ponder these questions in an objective manner with a constructive purpose.

Ramayan teaches us that any society that shows disrespect to the elderly or the young is a doomed one. These two generations represent our past and future; two time phases that are quintessential to a meaningful existence. How can we lead productive and progressive lives if neither our past nor our future is cared for? It would be an aimless and desultory existence; something not dissimilar to what we experience in present-day society.

Our seniors have contributed well and it is only just that they be cared for. We cannot turn a blind eye since everything we have today is due to their efforts. He who takes without giving is a thief, and rightly so. Many proclaim that care homes for the aged are an unnecessary item for Hindus as families usually do the job themselves. The reality is actually very far from that. Many seniors have to wait in the scorching sun for transport to and from doctor appointments; they have to make their own arrangements for purchase of medication, food and other items for everyday living. Homes for the aged can offer a sanctuary; a place where persons of similar background and experiences can come together and build friendships. The elderly love to talk, and most times, all they yearn is companionship. Such homes also organise all living arrangements, including medical and financial. The elderly can therefore live happily, without all the hassle of day-to-day living.

Our children require constant nurturing. Without them, there will be no future. According to the law of karma, what goes around comes around. In other words, the energies and efforts that we expend in the upbringing of the young will determine the future products. Children are like sponges. They imitate what they see, so it is best to lead by example. If we want a dharmic and moral future, then we should lead dharmic and moral lives. Every institution must fulfil its role – the family, the school, the temple/church/mosque, and the government. Because of the changing nature of family life, more effort is now required in the nurture of children. We have moved from an extended to a nuclear family landscape, where both parents work, leaving the supervision of children (formerly undertaken by grandparents or other family members) to babysitters of various forms and fashion, with television sets being the most popular choice. Could Hindu daycares be a viable alternative? Society must change according to the changing needs of life. Likewise, the education system should incorporate a focus on character building and values. It no longer suffices to solely offer a secular education.

Swaha has taken note of the changing needs of our society and is putting measures in place to handle such social challenges. Swaha will shortly open its Children’s Home in Penal. This Home will provide a haven for children whose own family homes are dysfunctional. It will be adequately staffed and the children will receive love and care in a Hindu setting. On the same note, land has been obtained and construction is to soon begin on a Home for the Aged. Systems are being initiated to help the elderly and the young. Everyone can get involved so that efforts can be intensified. We can get more done, in a shorter time frame, if each person does his part.

Swaha pays homage to and salutes the seniors in society from whom we have everything that we enjoy at present. To our prospective leaders, we vow to make a more concerted effort to create environments in which life-learning can take place. You have to play your part as well. This relationship should be mutual and much diligence and exertion are necessary from your camp. If each person can apply himself, surely the future would seem much brighter. Our goal is simple but by no means easy – to produce individuals that are steeped in dharma; persons who place morals and values at the core of everyday living. In this way, many of the current horrors of society can be avoided. Imagine such a place. Now, make it a reality.