Surviving Uncertainties

We live in uncertain times. Chaos seems to pervade everything. The pandemic has challenged us deeply, and the coronavirus has been merciless in its impact across all generations. Like many, I’ve felt a sense of unease, a fear of what the future holds. My thoughts often turn to the younger generation – my nephews, nieces, the teens, and children in our community. Though they may not voice it, they are likely facing significant internal struggles: grappling with their identities, trying to choose a path forward, and navigating the ever-shifting landscape of education.

They may question the relevance of their studies, doubt their abilities, and struggle to define their purpose. Many are overwhelmed by academic pressure, experiencing burnout and feeling lost in the process. I know someone who described each day as indistinguishable from the last, simply existing on “autopilot”; – going through the motions without truly engaging with life. I could feel his deep sense of hopelessness, as if he had nothing to look forward to.

Being a teenager today is fundamentally different from our own experiences. They face more distractions, greater stress, and constant comparisons. It saddens me to see how life in a cellphone-centric world can hinder their ability to develop their minds and refine their skills. While I appreciate the benefits of technology, including access to high-quality educational and entertainment content, I also recognize the many apps that waste our time and exert a negative influence if we allow them to. Like the body, a cellphone is a useful servant but a detrimental master.

Young people must learn to manage themselves effectively, harnessing technology to achieve their goals rather than being consumed by it. It is also crucial for parents and elders to be actively present, offering guidance and support. As the saying goes, “You are the books you read, the movies you watch, the music you listen to, the people you spend time with, and the conversations you engage in. Choose wisely what you feed your mind.”

In these uncertain times, the youth need our support and understanding more than ever, so they can discover and embrace their own worth and purpose. With learning shifting from schools to homes, parents and elders are now more involved in education. It is essential for parents and guardians to be actively present, offering guidance and support. Teachers, as always, play a vital role in inspiring students to pursue their dreams and aspirations. Our youth need teachers who not only teach the “how’s” and “why’s” of their subjects but also demonstrate genuine concern for their well-being.

There is so much to learn from this pandemic. We have realized that the survival of humankind requires a collective effort, a shared responsibility. The future may seem clouded, but we must hold onto the belief that this, too, shall pass. To all the young people navigating these turbulent times: be resilient. Don’t let despair take root. Seize every opportunity to learn, even within the confines of your home. Knowledge transcends the for walls of a classroom. This era demands adaptability, encouraging you to hone your skills wherever you may be.

And when this pandemic finally recedes, may we all emerge transformed. May we rise to the ways of the world but also compassionate, resilient, and driven by a deep sense of purpose. The uncertainties we face today are not roadblocks, but stepping stones. Let us help the youth build a bridge to a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow, brick by brick, with unwavering support and belief in their potential. For within them lies the strength, the ingenuity, and the heart to shape a better future for us all. The time to invest in that future is now.