Cai Bingrong, 1S4

Since the beginning of the early civilisations, parents bring up their children and when they are old, their children in turn look after them. The cycle has been going on till now and it exists not so much as a rule, but because of the virtue that lies within each and every one of these people — filial piety. However, in today’s world, we should broaden the limits of this virtue and let its benefits spread to everyone. The young shouldn’t be filial only to their parents. We should prepare them to shoulder the responsibility of caring for the older citizens — the old people in general.

To do this, we should start from the family. Family members should care for other and emphasize on family values. This will foster a sense of care for each other and thus, the young will of cause bring this virtue along into the society.

Next, speaking in terms of a community, they should organise parties and entertainment programmes specially for the elderly. This can be done through the community centres. Young people, especially, should be put in-charge so that they can feel the joy of caring for the elderly and learn how to care for the elderly at the same time.

Schools should also help by organising trips to the old folks’ home, and other homes for the elderly. In this way, the young can get into close contact with the elderly. Hence, they can understand them better and this inevitably will prepare them for their heavy responsibilities ahead. Other than organising trips, schools should also encourage students to join social clubs like the Interact Club, for example. From this, they will be able to gain more exposure to care for others.

Preparing the young for this great responsibility in the future is definitely important. Thus, time and resources is not to be saved in this area.