BP shining and Parenting…

The other day a parent told me that her 8th std son was suffering from BP. I was shocked. Looking at the boy I could understand why! He was clearly overweight. He was munching on a packet of bingo (a salted snack). He was never sent to play outdoors and obviously he was an angry young man! The lady’s daughter was in her 11th and she was sulking. Reason- she wanted to do liposuction!!

I could not believe my ears. But nothing surprising  though. Obesity, anorexia, juvenile BP/ diabetes are on the rise alarmingly. If India is going to have a ‘sick’ (sic) young population then imagine Abdul Kalam’s 2020 dream. Looks like we oldies have a big job to do. It is doubtful if today’s children will live to see India shining. So we have to do the work of taking India forward !!

It is equally surprising to note that the youth have so much of information on health, lifestyle and diseases and yet they are willing to flaunt it in the name of fashion. Behind their make-believe tough veneer they are fragmented. insecure and scared.

Parents would you mind coming out of your fantasy worlds and take care of your wards. Are you giving them hugs, kisses and telling them that you love them? Are you listening to them? Are you aware of their little dreams? Are you observing their growing selves? Are you talking to them??

Please do not tell me that you are taking them on fancy vacations and buying them whatever they want. For this is where you are erring, dear parents.