Basic Values in life

There was a time when the Malaysian Education System introduced a subject called " Values".The subject was relevant but sad to say not well implemented resulting in zero effect. Looking at the younger generation today one cannot help but conclude that many of them ( Not all though ) lack in these basic values.When was it that the younger people put others' needs in front of theirs ? How many people do you see making way for senior citizens or the disabled ? It would be so nice to see young people helping the elderly across the roads or giving them preference in queues . there was one day when mum and I were waiting to cross the road and not a single car slowed down to let us cross . Values are related closely to family and its the parents who set the trend for their children to follow .What we say and what we do are often emulated by the young so we must never forget to be good role models for our children and their children.We have to teach them to be respectful, considerate and caring and always put the interest of others ahead of theirs.I remember my late mother in law for though she was a simple lady she set certain standards which are commendable.If you tell her you are bringing her out she will be ready way before departure time ,all dressed up and waiting patiently.She never wanted anyone to wait for her and she did not mind waiting for others..a simple example of putting other people's interest ahead of yours. Today's generation sad to say lack in the finer points of human quality where emphasis is given to consideration and respect to others. The elderly are no longer given the respect and consideration they deserve and a lot of rituals which we carry out are but superficial manifestations of this value.There was a time when before they did anything children would at least inform or discuss the matter with their parents.This is no longer so today and many parents have no idea of what their children are doing or planning.Woe befall you if you but try to tell them what they should do.The erosion of family ties is caused partly by changing mindsets and societal changes which in terms of upholding of traditional values is definitely not something for the better. In terms of these values we find that perhaps the Malays are better role models.The average Malay place a lot of emphasis on parental care and respect .They traditional greeting of the elderly and consideration for them is something to be admired.I cant help but notice that sometimes simple acts of consideration are not even thought of by today's generation. If you cannot remember your family and the relationship which you have have with each other then you really lack character.Being "family" means you have the responsibility which comes with it.I remember when we were young my father would always take us to visit his sisters and mother.We had no cars at that time and travel was by bus but dad never failed to take us to visit his siblings so that we knew who our uncles and aunties were and though they were simple people they never failed to welcome us.It is disappointing to see some people who are able forsake their family because of petty issues and at the same time to see how some people go out of the way to fulfil their family obligations. Too many people are involved in the rat race to even think of their basic obligations in life which leads us to ponder " Have we become so materialistic that we forget all other things and if this is so ,is it worth it ?"