THE EDITOR, Sir:
KINDLY allow me to share with your readers my observations of a growing trend that is very debilitating for any nation. There is a pervasive permissiveness permeating this society which can only lead to perdition. Too many excuses are being made for those who blatantly refuse to conform to the norms expected of people who interact with others. When people hurt others intentionally, it is the people who tell the offenders that they are in the wrong and not the offenders. Those who are wrong are strong in their defence of wrongdoing and those who speak out against this are so weak and ineffective that it seems as if they are apologising for recognising that people have done wrong.
People should not be protected from the consequences of their actions. Our children need to learn to take responsibility for their actions. Adults need to teach by example. Punishment serves a purpose in society. Those who trample on the rights of others should not be allowed to roam freely and do as they please. Too much of this unacceptable behaviour is allowed in our schools, homes, and wider communities.
I wish to make a special appeal to mothers, wives, girlfriends and sisters to stop condoning and excusing the wrongs done by their sons, husbands, boyfriends and brothers. Those who are causing excruciating pain and grief to others do not live in outer space. They live among us. They belong to families.
May God grant us the courage to take a stand against wrongdoing and stop being permissive in this society.
I am, etc.,
WINNIE
ANDERSON-BROWN
winab@cwjamaica.com
Bagatelle District
Ashley P.A.
Clarendon
