South African columnist Allen Myakayaka has expressed concern over the trend of glamorizing bad behavior in the country. In a recent opinion piece, Myakayaka argued that society has become too accepting of ill-discipline, often excusing it as a characteristic of certain generations. He believes that this attitude is not only misguided but also harmful, as it fails to teach children the importance of respect and responsibility.
Myakayaka contends that the notion that a birth year can be used as a license to misbehave is problematic. He argues that right and wrong should not be determined by age or generation, but rather by universal principles of morality. According to Myakayaka, the emphasis on being "woke," "bold," or "unfiltered" can actually be disarming, rather than liberating, as it often encourages reckless behavior without accountability.
The columnist emphasizes the importance of teaching children essential life skills, such as respect for elders, peers, and property. He believes that these values are fundamental to building a functional and harmonious society. Myakayaka also highlights the significance of ubuntu, a concept that emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect and dignity. However, he notes that ubuntu has become a buzzword, often used as a marketing gimmick rather than a guiding principle for daily life.
Myakayaka criticizes society for confusing robustness and outspokenness with rudeness and destruction. He argues that screaming loudly does not necessarily make one more principled, and that this approach can be counterproductive. Instead, he advocates for a more nuanced approach to expressing oneself, one that balances assertiveness with respect for others.
The columnist also highlights the destructive consequences of service delivery protests and strikes, which often result in the destruction of public property, such as schools, libraries, and clinics. He notes that these actions not only harm the community but also undermine the very goals that the protests aim to achieve. Myakayaka believes that children learn more from what they see than from what they are told, and that adults must model the behavior they expect from young people.
Myakayaka's comments have sparked a necessary conversation about the values and behaviors that society should promote. As South Africa continues to grapple with social and economic challenges, his insights serve as a reminder of the importance of instilling a sense of responsibility and respect in children. By doing so, the country can build a more harmonious and functional society, one that values ubuntu and promotes positive relationships among its citizens.
Key points
- Columnist Allen Myakayaka argues that glamorizing bad behavior sets children up for failure and undermines the values of ubuntu.
