I think I learned a lot during the five days I spent with them. I realised the most effective way to reach out to the elderly was to ask them about their past. They were very eager to share their experiences, which gave me an idea about Hong Kong society many years ago. Most of the elderly were from the mainland and they faced a lot of hardship. Many took up more than one job and worked long hours to make ends meet.

I realise how fortunate I am - I have a good education and enjoy much better living standards. I have now decided to cherish what I have and stop complaining about minor problems in my life.

Annie Zhang, St Paul's Co-educational College

How to counter internet addiction

Almost every home in Hong Kong has a computer now. Recently, there has been concern about teenagers being addicted to the internet.

Such addiction is the result of the city's highly competitive education system. Teenagers are under immense pressure. Parents expect their children to do well at school, but not every child can achieve high standards.

Many low-achievers suffer from a lack of confidence and low self-esteem, which prevents them from interacting with others. As a result, they withdraw to their own world - the internet. They are more confident chatting online, and the computer becomes their best friend.

Internet addiction is a serious problem. Children who sit in front of their terminals for hours risk getting poor grades and isolating themselves.

It will affect their relationship with family members and friends. More importantly, 'cyber addicts' who enter the working world will be less competitive than their peers.

It's time for parents, schools and the government to take action. Parents should spend more time with their children and get to know them better. It would be wonderful if parents could inspire their children to achieve their targets. Also, schools can launch more extra-curricular activities, such as interest clubs and sports lessons, and persuade students to take part in them.

Meanwhile, the government can provide more money for community centres to organise events for youngsters. With such a wide variety of activities on offer, I think they will spend less time on the internet.

Vivian Lee, Our Lady of the Rosary College

Historical sites bring benefits

Thanks to the government, King Yin Lei - the historic mansion on Stubbs Road - has been restored to its former glory. The building, which was damaged by the owner, is scheduled to open to the public this month.

The reopening will allow some shops to operate on the historical site. This shows that business and conservation can go hand in hand.

Hopefully, more historical sites can be saved through the government heritage revitalisation scheme.

Mike Tam, Hang Seng School of Commerce

Airport body checks raise concerns

Travellers have to undergo body searches for concealed weapons and explosives at airports in the United States.

Many said they felt uncomfortable about the pat-downs. They said the procedure was as bad as full-body scans by X-ray machines. Some people have asked whether such extreme measures are necessary for the sake of passenger safety.

I understand the American government wants to protect travellers without upsetting them.

However, I think the US security precautions are too strict.

Although I agree there should be adequate security at airports, authorities should use less invasive ways to screen passengers. Besides, check-ins shouldn't take too long. Otherwise, what should be an enjoyable experience could easily become a nightmare for airline passengers.

Jennifer Cheung Hoi-ting, Pooi To Middle School