The celebration of World Elders’ Day on October 1, along with World Children’s Day, around the globe should bring a sense of happiness and pride for them, as a day has been spared to talk of them, to value their contribution, think of their well being, and so on.
Today, we have become members of a fast moving world in which wonders and miracles of modern technology play a vital role in almost all areas, the younger generation embracing them and enjoying the magical work performed by such devices for entertainment, education and so on, apparently creating a considerable gap between the two generations. The fate of elders, on the other hand, with this advancement of technology seems to be a matter which should be examined from a more critical perspective. Do elders at present enjoy their rights and privileges? Do they receive due respect from society, particularly, from the younger generation?
To what extent is the younger generation prepared to listen to elders and seek advice? This is a dilemma for which one cannot give a ready or clear cut answer, for, many news articles and video clips have in the recent past depicted how elders are treated by their own kith and kin, and others.
Headlines in newspapers, such as, ‘Father in a kennel’, ’Mother of five deserted’ prove the fact that in many countries, third world countries in particular, most elders sing the song of suffering and are the actors and actresses of the drama ‘ Ill-treatment’. Living fifty or sixty years or above is a great achievement in one’s life as most of the years of that period may have been spent by many earning wages, bringing up children, providing education, building houses, paying loans and what not.
Hence, once they reach old age, they deserve to be looked after, loved, respected and cared for. Though they are physically weak, their knowledge and wealth of experience can provide sterling ideas and opinions for youngsters to widen their horizons.
The tears that roll down the eyes of the elders in packed Elders’ Homes in many parts of the country reveal the tragic, untold episodes of their lives; and they heave a sigh of relief as there is at least a place for them to be in for the rest of their lives, despite the fact that their loving children are here or abroad leading comfortable lives, over the blood and sweat shed by their parents.
Celebrating just a single day for elders would not suffice, for, their commitment and dedication to their families, society, and the country is immeasurable. Therefore, let’s respect, look after and treat our elders, as we too will be in that category one day. Let that day be a happy day to reflect the happy moments, shedding tears of joy with members of the family, relatives and friends around.
A Jayalath Basnagoda
Senior Lecturer, Mahaweli National College of Education, Polgolla