Care for others is the measure of greatness - Editorial

Destiny has seen to it that everyone who meets another is given the opportunity to influence and enrich that person. Most times however, being wrapped up in our selfish pursuit of seeking self fulfilment, we lose it. A simple and ordinary meeting with, let’s say, a bus conductor, by giving a smile or a friendly greeting, even though he may not deserve it, not only that person, but other passengers who would come into contact with that conductor, who may have not received a smile from anyone for that day – What a difference it would make. Each is called to be responsible to make life better for the other.



Parents likewise are given a responsibility to look after their children. Psychologists say that parents who give much care and attention have children who become more mature and balanced. They on their part would build good families too. This would surely help in building a healthy nation. How daunting if parents abdicate their responsibilities over their children. This could happen when parents are more concerned with keeping up with the Silvas and Pereras. Showing off their status and position to people around, while unseen, children lose having someone to listen to their fears and concerns. Parents could shirk their responsibility, giving it over to the teachers and teachers likewise to parents.

Likewise people of a nation elect governing powers to look after their interests, and take care of them. Such are duty bound to be accountable and answerable to the people. Both depend on each other. They would discover their true potential like parents and children discover their identities and potential only by striving to complement and look up to the other.

Sadly however, in our country the ruling powers appear to have abdicated their responsibility of looking after the people, though they win elections by fair means or foul. It’s largely about looking after themselves. The prevailing thinking is to let development take place at any cost. The so-called development is decided by a few individuals, who often seek personal gain or glory. Controls and regulations are sacrificed. Fiscal losses, colossal though they be, are overlooked. There is a disturbing lack of responsibility and answerability. When this happens there will be a breakdown of law and order. Chaos will follow, hurting and destroying not only the people - but those who had been given the mandate to be good stewards of the resources of this country.

It is not too late to let saner counsel to prevail. All it takes is to seek the cooperation of the people by being transparent in all activities. Those being looked after have a right to know why things are being done the way they are. Is it for their own good or for the good of those that govern?