A Nigerian columnist, Chukwuneta Oby, has expressed concern over the growing trend of ungratefulness among some members of Generation Z. In her recent column, Oby shared a personal experience of supporting a young lady from her neighbourhood who had become pregnant and was left to care for her child after her mother's death. Oby continued to assist the girl even after she finished secondary school, but was later shocked to learn that she had gotten married without informing her.
The young lady, who had been receiving financial support from Oby, had disappeared from her WhatsApp radar for months before reappearing with pictures of her marriage ceremony. Oby claimed that she didn't hear from her again until June 2024, when the young lady reached out, claiming to have been through a lot. Oby tongue-lashed her and warned her not to contact her again, but later forgave her. This experience has led Oby to question the values of some young people who only reach out to their benefactors when they need help.
Oby shared another experience of a young lady she had matchmade with an acquaintance in the US, who relocated her to his base. After over six years of marriage, the lady never reached out to Oby, but contacted her again after the marriage ended and she found herself back in Nigeria. Oby also mentioned a young lady she had helped secure a job, who never thanked her until she scolded her for her behaviour.
Oby believes that this trend of ungratefulness is a growing concern among Gen Z individuals, who seem to only reach out to their benefactors when they need help. She notes that it's unfair for people to only turn to others when they are going through difficult times, and then abandon them when things are going well.
The columnist warns that marriages and relationships built on a bag of attitude and "damning everyone" around them seldom last. She advises young people to be grateful for the help they receive and to maintain relationships even when things are going well. Oby also emphasizes the importance of not carrying burdens that are not one's own.
Oby's article has sparked a conversation about the values of Gen Z individuals and the importance of gratitude in relationships. While some may argue that Oby's expectations are unrealistic, others agree that a sense of entitlement and ungratefulness is a growing concern among young people. The article has generated a lot of interest and debate on social media.
The issue of ungratefulness among Gen Z individuals is a complex one, and Oby's article is just one perspective on the matter. However, it highlights the need for a conversation about the values and attitudes of young people today. By sharing her personal experiences, Oby hopes to encourage young people to reflect on their behaviour and to cultivate a sense of gratitude and appreciation for those who have helped them.
Key points
- The growing trend of ungratefulness among Gen Z individuals is a concern that needs to be addressed.
- Ungrateful behaviour can damage relationships and lead to a sense of entitlement.
- Cultivating gratitude and appreciation is essential for building and maintaining healthy relationships.
