Children must understand what love really means

THE EDITOR: Our society must be concerned with keeping our children and more particularly our teens safe from unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease (STD). This is especially important in light of the increasing spread of HIV/AIDS.

It is imperative, that we, as responsible citizens and parents, determine the most effective approach that can be used to protect our young people from sexual abuse and sexually transmitted diseases. Should this help be based on sex education in the schools? Should it be based only on parental guidance? Should it be based on the contribution of religious and other reputable organisations? Or should we depend on the exchange of experiences between friends or peers? How can we get our young people to agree to leave sex alone, until they are mature adults?

Fellow citizens, we have a serious problem on our hands. Why? Because our young minds are constantly exposed, to stimuli of a sexual nature; whether it comes from the music or songs they hear, or the movies in our living rooms. I read recently that young persons nine and ten years old were sexually active. Imagine that? How can such things be happening? Where are the parental guidance and controls? Are moral and spiritual influences by the churches lost along the way? How do we help young people cope with the pressures of measuring up to peer pressure?

I wish therefore, to suggest the following: Firstly, sex must not be taboo in the homes, nor in the churches. It must be a subject treated with the seriousness it deserves. Remember when we speak of sex education, we are really speaking about relationships. Relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. Secondly, on-going discussions should be held for young people at an early age in order to show how important it is to take care of their bodies. They must be reminded that all of us have been created for  a very noble purpose. Thirdly, we adults, teachers, imams, pundits, pastors and priests, community leaders, as well as fathers and mothers must set the right example, not only in words, but also in our actions.

Parents cannot abdicate their responsibility as the authority figure in the home. They must promote an atmosphere where their children can understand what love means, and the importance of friendship and discipline. As a matter of fact, it must be remembered that the home as a social unit must be the main contributor to the development and growth of a stable and upright society. Also, the home as an integral part of society must be committed to the establishment and maintenance of sound spiritual and moral values. God less our nation.

COLVIN BLAIZE
Chaguanas