OUR parents are among the most important people in our lives.
The question is, how many of us have time for them when they are old? It is disheartening to see so many parents in old folks homes.
“We are busy and have to take care of our family” is an excuse that some give for neglecting their parents.
They think they have fulfilled their responsibilities because they give a monthly allowance to their parents. I believe parents need more than that. They loved, nurtured and did their best to provide for us.
Are we doing the same for them when they need us during their twilight years? We are answerable to our own conscience and to God if we fail to fulfill our filial duties.
I have seen people leave their bedridden parents in a room by themselves without much care. It’s worse when siblings fight over their parents’ property. Sadly, some people can change in a split second when money is involved. The examples that I gave are just the tip of the iceberg. There are many more heart-wrenching stories.
Perhaps, these people do not realise that they are living in a temporary world. What I can conclude is that they have simply forgotten the law of karma.
Every religion says that you reap what you sow. What goes around comes around.
I have seen friends make great sacrifices for their children. They say it is their responsibility to do their utmost for their children. This begs the question: Are the children going to do the same for their parents when they grow up?
I think it all boils down to the values that we instill in our children. Besides ensuring that their children study hard and get good results, parents should also inculcate moral values in them A good attitude goes a long way in life.
We will not appreciate the depth of their love for us until we become parents.
We should show them that we love them before it’s too late. Regrets are pointless when our parents are no longer with us and all we see are their empty chairs.
Sumati Muniandy, Johor Baru, Johor