Leading by example

As an individual who is always aware of his surroundings, I often listen and observe everything that is going on around me. A common aspect of today's society I have noticed, is kids swearing. All the time like second nature! But the problem lies not with the kids, but at home.

I strongly believe, if you allow your kids to use foul language at home, where primary socialisation takes place, it will eventually spiral out of control. Give it a good couple of years down the line and the parents will be saying, "How I wish my kid was better". It all starts at home.

Being lenient and soft is one thing, but being a bad parent is another. Too many people do not discipline the youth. I have often encountered rude kids who just love answering you back, whilst at work. The cheekiness is beyond comprehension at times! You end up thinking to yourself, is this how they always are?

The other day at work, I was walking past a family with kids of which the eldest was probably around 6. All I heard was the father use the word 'crap'. I mean it's not a rude word, but is it a good word? Should elders not set an example? We often complain about disobedient youths, but what about the elders in society? Respect isn't just given, it is earned. This doesn't just apply to parents, but elder siblings too. Younger siblings always look up to elder siblings and it is a fact. If any of you guys are elder siblings, please look out for the example you set.

Technology also influences highly. Kids of the age of 3 know how to use smart phones better than I do! And I have witnessed, the usage of technology, ruining the mouth of a kid. Watching Youtube videos and learning swears and then when talking to others, of course, showing what has been learnt. It's never too late to change, but what is ingrained in you from a young age, pretty much stays with us for most of our lives so isn't it better to stop it before it starts? If you are aware of your siblings or children using technology, look out for them and check what they are doing and if it is any good. It is not controlling, but rather being protective.

As fouls language affected me for most of my younger, ignorant days, it is a subject that I have strong views about. If you're reading this and thinking, "Yes, I do use a lot of foul language", know, that it is never too late to stop. Foul language only degrades your character in front of others. No benefits whatsoever.