Mums and Dads play many an important role in their children’s life, but will being a burden eventually be one of them?
Entering the elderly age group comes with its own set of growing pains. The elderly have many common worries such as their declining health, loss of mobility and independence, financial concerns, and commonly overlooked, loneliness and abandonment.
It’s not unusual for these worries to go on without being vocalised, either.
A short film released recently highlights the plight of ageing parents and how many of them go out of their way to prove themselves useful and avoid feeling like a burden to their children. Sometimes, this comes at the cost of their personal health.
Being a filial child
Ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius, who’s preaches revolved around the veneration of elders once wrote, “There are three degrees of filial piety. The highest is being a credit to our parents, the second is not disgracing them; the lowest is being able simply to support them.”
While young Malaysians have been thoroughly schooled on this longstanding value of filial piety in their respective institutions, it is not till later in adulthood (or perhaps upon reaching parenthood) does one truly understand and appreciate the actual message.
Suresh Rajenthiran, a marketing and communications manager (F&B industry) who feels strongly about the issue, shares his personal view: “At some point in our lives we may feel that our aging parents are a burden, especially as we are trying to achieve our own career, relationships, and personal goals.
“But if you know what sacrifices your parents have made for you, you will not see it as a burden but as your mission to take care of them in their golden years,” adds the 30-year-old.
Actor and performer Jonathan Lee, featured in the abovementioned film, shares a little about his experiences with his family:
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