Stop disrespecting elders

02 November 2009 - 02:00
By unknown

WHAT happened to the saying: "Respect elders so that you can live longer"?

WHAT happened to the saying: "Respect elders so that you can live longer"?

When I was growing up my grandmother, who raised me and of whom I am proud, used to tell me that if I wanted to be somebody in the future and be blessed I should respect other people, especially the elderly, and to uphold my culture.

Unfortunately, these values are not part of some of the people who are in leadership positions today.

The recent attacks by Deputy Police Minister Fikile Mbalula on Kader Asmal, calling him a raving lunatic, clearly demonstrates disrespect.

One cannot forget Free State ANC Youth League chairperson Thebe Meeko's statement that Jonathan Jansen is a racist who must be shot and killed.

With reluctance but without hate I mention Julius Malema, though his name is often mentioned as a hero when he is a villain. I must, however, mention his attacks on Mangosuthu Buthelezi and Helen Zille.

All the people I have mentioned are old enough to be the parents of these spoilt brats.

What happened to Ubuntu/ Botho and culture and respect and why are our elders insulted in this manner?

Puleng Mmila, Seokodibeng