THE EDITOR, Sir:
IT IS often said that it takes a community to grow a child, but unfortunately, I do not see this happening where I live. So very often I see young people, especially boys, in their mid-to-late teens just walking aimlessly around the neighbourhood with nothing to do.
These pleasant, well-mannered young people just seem to need someone to guide them along or just talk to them about job opportunities.
RETIRED CITIZENS
On the other hand, the community is also filled with many retired citizens who have lived a good life and have now settled down to enjoy the fruits of their labour.
While they are entitled to that, I wish they would just be a little less hypocritical about it. I am tired of hearing them whisper daily about how hapless, hopeless or helpless the youths around them are.
It seems that all they do is stand in their backyards, peep over their picket fences, and criticise. Wouldn't it be nice if they could take some time to just meet and great the young people around them? A smile, a pat on the shoulder or a simple word of advice would do a world of good for them.
I wonder how many of them have ever offered to take a few children to church on Sundays.
To you, seniors, I say, you have worked and retired and now are living well, but please do not be a snob about it. Show your faces to the youths and let them know that you care.
My wish therefore for the New Year is that most of you not only in my community, but right across Jamaica, share with the youths around you, your expertise. Guide them on how they can get a job. Let love and encouragement be the key for the New Year.
I am, etc.,
JACQUELINE WRIGHT
Mandeville, Manchester
jamline66@yahoo.com
