What is the responsiblilty of youngsters towards the elders?
As parents, the elders have given their children their life, educated them and
most often enabled them to earn a decent living. Whatever maybe the social
problem, youngsters must realize that they should care for their parents and the
other elders in the family. |
|
Is the joint-family system better than living seperately?
There is no doubt that the joint-family system has many advantages such as the
experience of the elders, their time & effort in taking care of the children or
looking after the household and their advice when the youngsters are at fault. The elders
themselves are no doubt benefitted as they are not left alone. This contributes to their
mental and physical well-being. Also, in times of sickness and need, the younger
generation will be there to care for them. Grandparents and
grandchildren have a special bonding that enriches the lives of each other.
But it cannot be denied that when certain social and family circumstances act as a
barrier against the joint family system, then it is better that the elders and youngsters
live seperately. This way the relationship is still cordial and not spoiled by staying
together. But efforts should be made to meet each other, with the children in the
family, and talk to one another as often as possible. |
|
What should be the attitude of the younger generation towards the
elders?
First of all, the younger generation should learn to respect the elders and their
experience. They should understand their feelings and sentiments and care for the elders.
Sometimes, the wisdom and experience of the elders may be invaluable in solving their own
problems.
It is not enough for the youngsters merely to provide for the elders. It is more important
to show them affection and respect. Domestic problems could be discussed with the elders.
It is not necessary to always accept what they say, but the elders feel wanted and
respected. This prevents a conflict between them and the youngsters.
One should always remember that the wheel of life is constantly turning and the youngsters
themselves will have to one day depend on the next generation.
It is said in the vedas that devotion to elders is like devotion to God. |
|
What should be the attitude of the older generation towards the
youngsters?
Elders should first of all make an effort to understand the socio-economic conditions,
careers and family of their children. They should try to adjust and not interfere in the
day to day affairs and problems of their children's family. Unless asked, they should
patiently refrain from giving advice. They should not compare the attitude of the
youngsters of today with their own attitude when they were young.
They could try to assist in the day to day affairs of the family, like taking the
grandchildren to school, doing the bank work or paying the bills. Interaction with the
grandchildren most often refreshes the minds of the elders and infact delays the ageing
process.
Though some people prefer to be left alone, solitude is one of the main problems for
elders. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
