The childhood dilemma!
I used to be happy when I was a child. I was not aware of the different jobs I might occupy in the future, nor was I concerned about their significance. This was in the 1990s, a time when the world was changing not so rapidly. Nowadays, most millennial kids seem to know their paths from a very young age, and the concept of social status appears deeply ingrained in people’s minds. Are they having a good time? I feel confused.
I remember a conversation I had with the sibling of one of my acquaintances two years ago. She was an aspirant for the medical entrance exam and firmly believed in the merits of becoming a doctor. She was willing to endure hardships to gain respectability. Another young friend of mine, who is in the upper primary class, expressed her desire to pursue a career in computer science and move to the United States of America, stating that only lower-class people remain in India now. She has started taking classes from white hat junior and spending her days mostly in front of her laptop and other gadgets These instances make me wonder about the direction society is heading in.
The Number Puzzle
Recently, I heard. the story of my housemate! She mentioned a student of hers whose parents wanted the child to achieve high marks and even insisted that the teacher use harsh punishment methods on the child. It’s disheartening to witness such attitudes prevailing in our society.
As we observe the world around us, it becomes evident that society is focused on showcasing its achievements and status, even though it may not be relevant or meaningful, even for the wealthiest individuals on the planet.
India’s Position
Looking at statistics, it takes an average of 7 generations for societal upward mobility in India. The social mobility index of the World Economic Forum has placed India 76th among 82 countries. For someone in the lowest rung of society, achieving even a single step up seems nearly impossible within their generation or their immediate children’s generation. In a country where many elite job positions are occupied by individuals from so-called high-class backgrounds, it’s disheartening to see the dreams of those who don’t fit that mould being undervalued and undermined.
Points to Ponder
The notion of the dignity of labour needs to be emphasized. The world is not merely divided into white or gold-collar jobs. All of us exist based on the intricate interdependence of every being and element in this world. Extremes cannot sustain for long. It is a lesson we all need to learn and apply in our lives. Let us provide our children with the opportunity to explore the world with open eyes, take chances, and pursue their true passions. Let’s promote the dignity of all kinds of work, setting aside ego and selfish ambitions. We should imagine ourselves as part of a vast universe and recognize the significance of our existence on this beautiful planet, where every living and non-living entity coexists to keep the life cycle in motion. None of the professions, be it doctors, engineers, or civil servants, can achieve this alone.
By fostering a culture that respects and values all forms of labour, we can create a more inclusive and fulfilling society for everyone.
