A long life is nothing without love
Research has shown that Hongkongers are the second longest-living people in the world, with an average lifespan of 82 years. But I don't think this means that old people in Hong Kong are happy. Many children pay for the needs of their parents but they seldom care for them. For example, they seldom have dinner with their parents - they think that helping their parents financially is enough. It is not. What old people need is love and care from their children and only this can really make them happy.
Some people have short but happy lives because they have had love from their families. If old people have long lives but lack love, they really suffer. Look at the old people who live in homes for the elderly. They have a place to live in and nurses and doctors to take care of them, but are they happy?
As sons and daughters, we should try our best to care for our parents and give them happiness. Living with love and without regrets is more important than a long life.
Winsome Wong, SKH Lam Woo Memorial Secondary School
From the Editor
Thank you for your letter, Winsome. It is true that many Hongkongers - and people in other developed parts of the world - no longer feel they have time for their families, especially their parents. Life can be very lonely for these elderly folks, especially if they live in areas which are densely populated. It seems that the more people who are crowded into a place, the more lonely they become. In rural areas, communities bond together. But in estates, people seldom know who their neighbours are.
I'd like to think Young Post readers will at least take the time to exchange a few words with older folks and lift their spirits. It takes so little time and effort but the difference it can make in someone's life can be immense.
Susan, Editor
