Today Hindu Metro Plus has an article on Child Sexual Abuse. As the writer rightly points out - Nov 19 is not World Day for Prevention of CSA, everyday is.
Educators, parents, all adults have a responsibility towards every child to give them a peaceful, stress free life, most importantly, one that lets them grow up learning only those things appropriate to their ages. There is sense in our traditional system which does not encourage unmonitored mingling between the sexes - it reduces the possibility of abuse. Making children aware so that they do not become victims is important.
But here, I also want to stress - bringing them up in a way that they do not become perpetrators later is also important. Though for every parent their child can do no wrong, it is children who grow up to be adults who perpetrate such beastly acts. And I think, it happens when they have been exposed to wrongs themselves. Giving them respect as children, and teaching them to respect others are important. Giving right priorities, teaching them to focus within and find peace there will help maintain emotional balance.
Similarly, while dealing with those around us, I think we should keep that respect. Many acts like stealing, cheating and abuse of the vulnerable can happen with a desire to take revenge. Be it a driver, the maid or anyone from economically backward segments, treating them as human beings is important.
We cannot eradicate this overnight. But if we reduce the propensity to offend by creating a positive atmosphere around us and increasing awareness, maybe we will go back to days when we do not have to keep a hawk's eye on our children all the time, do not look at every casual interaction with suspicion.
May we find peace in this lifetime.
