Features
The aged needs respect, not this type of evil branding by the youth
A story published on page 3 of the state-owned Spectator newspaper of Saturday July 29, 2023, with the headline, “Aged not evil…Disrespecting them attracts curses – Catholic Priest” makes for interesting reading. The story written by Dzifa Tetteh Tay read in part: The youth have been advised to treat their parents with respect, especially in their old age. “Do not call your parents witches,” the Parish Priest of the Saint Augustine Catholic Church at Ashaiman in the Greater Accra Region, Reverend Father Ignatius Ayivor (SVD), gave the caution at a church service on Sunday.
Accusing the aged as witches
He said it was appalling that persons who had been blessed to grow old were accused of being witches and being the cause of problems in their homes. Speaking at a joint First and Second Mass on Sunday, he said that persons who maltreated the aged only drew curses for themselves. He lamented that instead of children reciprocating the sacrifices made by their parents in appreciation of their care and love, some old persons were unfortunately, facing serious discrimination, stressing that the practice was becoming a common phenomenon which to him must be discouraged. Old age, he said “is a blessing which not everyone will enjoy”, adding that some old men and women were struggling because their children had neglected them. He said such act would not go unpunished by God, so all children must endeavor to take good care of their parents.
COUNSELING BY REV. MINISTER
Indeed, these are profound statements, words of exhortation and counselling from a reverend minister who have observed and done a research on bad and negative treatment being meted out to people who have one- time tasted life and are now in their advanced age. Some of them might be personalities possessing enormous wisdom and intellectual abilities to advance the course of development in our society. Others have used their rich experience during their youthful age to shape our society and now they are being branded witches and wizards by the youth, some of whom happened to be their own biological parents. That is most painful and unfortunate scenario.
This article will not be complete if I fail to dilate on issues regarding the aged and why there is the need for the younger generation to revere and accord them the necessary and needed respect in the society since they are the repository of wisdom. An older person is defined by the United Nations as someone who is over 60 years of age. However, families and communities often use other socio-cultural factors to define age, including family status, physical appearance or age-related health conditions to determine who is an aged.
WHAT CONSTITUTES AGEING?
Ageing is a gradual, continuous process of natural change that begins in early adulthood. During early middle age, many bodily functions begin to gradually decline. Traditionally, age 65 years has been designated as beginning of old age. Common conditions in older age may include hearing loss, cataracts and refractive errors in the eye, back and neck pain and osteoarthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, diabetes, depression and dementia. As people aged, they are more likely to experience several conditions at the same time. It is generally accepted that damage to genetic materially cells and tissues that accumulate with age which cannot be repaired by the body is the cause of the loss of function associated with ageing.
AGEING IS OF ESSENCE
As humans created by the Almighty God, you cannot avoid getting old at some point in life and that is what we need to understand, recognize and appreciate. As a youth with enough strength, all things being equal without sickness or any ailment that can send you to your grave early or prematurely, you will by all means pass through the various stages of life’s cycle. You will be an infant, toddler, adolescent, adult, middle age and finally old age. The last stage of the life cycle is termed the end-end-of life period, that is when the body system shut down and death is eminent. You do not turn into a witch or wizard at this stage in life, since it is a normal routine that you will one day become old at a point in time. Therefore, for someone who is close to you, a family member, your old blood relation or your own child to brand you a witch or wizard means that person is inviting a curse to himself or herself as the Holy Bible preaches.
Attacks on the aged
It is most unfortunate that parents who have sacrificed to look after their children by ensuring their upkeep and spending a lot to give them better and sound education only turned out to be witches and wizards for the fact that they have grown old. As soon as one starts growing grey hair, he or she automatically becomes a nuisance and evil to the child or the family. Peer pressures from friends among the youth have been contributory factors to some of these negative inclinations.
Showing courtesy and respect to the aged often referred to as senior citizens may not only brighten their day but also yours and can earn you more blessings from the Almighty God. It is important for the youth to always respect our elders, help them in their work, spend some of their time with them, talk to them in a more polite manner, respect their wise counseling and above all to show them your love and affection at all times. Sometimes, it can be difficult to relate to the generations that have come before us. Growing up in different circumstance can make us feel as if we have nothing common with them. But, let us not forget that older people have plenty and lot of wisdom and knowledge to share with younger generations and, therefore, treating them with respect should be an ideal thing to do by the youth.
How the aged are held in high esteem
In most jurisdictions across the world, especially in Europe, Asia and the Americas, the aged are held in high esteem, they are highly respected and accorded all the courtesies they deserved to have. Even in public transportation, such as buses and trains, special seats have been reserved to accommodate the aged. In most of their shopping centers, special places have been designated for the aged for their shopping activities. Food rations on daily basis, are provided to the aged to make them feel comfortable and happy. The aged enjoys the fruit of their labour and hard work because they are considered as people who have one time served their countries. Is that the case in Ghana? The answer is big no. We rather prefer to look down on them, vilify them and treat them with the contempt by branding them with all forms of negativities, such as witches and wizards.
Lukewarm attitudes by governments
While blaming the youth for various forms of negativities and cruel practices against the older generation and for that matter the aged, it is also important to at least criticise various past and present governments of Ghana for the lukewarm attitudes and also not giving the needed attention to the aged in the society, forgetting that most of them have sacrificed for the betterment of the country. Look at what happened recently when some of the aged have to picket at the Ministry of Finance headquarters in Accra, just to fight for their matured bonds which government was feeling reluctant to pay them. Was it not a threat to their survival? Some of them have to trek from far and near to picket daily at the Finance Ministry. It was time subsequent governments in our country set good and shining examples concerning the aged for the youth to emulate.
BY CHARLES NEEQUAYE
Contact email/WhatsApp of author:
ataani2000@yahoo.com
0277753946/0248933366
Features
Who knows tomorrow?
Recently a friend posted a sad news on his Facebook page, announcing the death of a school mate who had passed away, suddenly. The report had it that he was on his way to the airport to take a flight to Ghana.
I am sure this man had already informed the wife or a friend or a work colleague at work that he was returning home but he was not to return as a human being but as a dead body.
Such is life and so we need to be circumspect in how we go about things in life. The Bible reminds us that we are like grass which at one point in time looks elegant and the next moment becomes withered according to Psalm 90:5 and 6. It is for this reason that we need to guard our hearts with the word of God so that we shall be motivated to do the right thing, at all times.
This will enable us live on this planet, free from all sorts of troubles in our personal lives, even if we ignore the question of Heaven and Hell. Living a disciplined life delivers us from any kind of trouble as the Bible declares in Galatians 5:23 that against such there is no law.
The uncertainty surrounding our lives on earth is the more reason why people should commit their lives into the hands of the one who created it, in the first place unless you believe that the world created itself and that it appeared from nowhere.
Otherwise, the logical thing to do is to recognize the authority of the creator and surrender to his Lordship. Heaven is real and Hell is real, so for us who know the truth and have received Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, the onus lies on us to encourage our relations who have not believed and received Jesus into their lives, to do so.
We are a couple of days from another Easter Resurrection celebration and an opportunity to reflect on our lives in relation to the significance of Easter. In the Bible, the only occasion Jesus, Saviour of the world commands us to celebrate is his death and resurrection.
He never commanded his followers to celebrate his birth but like everything else, we chose to ignore Jesus’s instructions and decided to do what pleases us, just like our forefather and mother in the Garden of Eden.
Let us deliberately choose to do things differently as Christians this Easter, so we can really benefit from all the blessings that the celebration of the death and birth of Jesus, has on offer. Doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result is definitely insanity.
I choose to be different this Easter and I am believing God for a newness of life so God’s glory would be revealed in me to draw the unsaved to him. It is only when people especially the unsaved, see the character of Christ in us, that they can be convinced about the authenticity of Jesus, as Saviour of the world, who can bring transformation in their lives too.
This is what would motivate them to surrender their lives to Jesus Christ. Let us make this Easter a memorable one that will be cherished for a long time. It is also a period for reconciliation and it would be great if in the spirit of Easter, we would try to reach out to those who have wronged us or have a grudge against us.
This would demonstrate that we have indeed accepted Jesus and that our religious posture is not a sham. May the good Lord grant us the grace to love our neighbours as ourselves, demonstrating the love of God in the process.
Those who have lost their loved ones and Easter brings sad memories, may the good Lord comfort and strengthen you. God bless.
.NB: ‘CHANGE KOTOKA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO KOFI BAAKO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT’
Features
Cosmetic deformities
COSMETIC deformities refer to physical imperfections or abnormalities that affect an individual’s appearance, often causing emotional distress and impacting their quality of life.
These deformities can be congenital, acquired, or result from various medical conditions or treatments. This article provides an in-depth exploration of cosmetic deformities, their types, causes, effects, and treatment options.
Types of cosmetic deformities
Cosmetic deformities can affect various parts of the body, including the face, skin, hair, nails, and teeth. Some common types of cosmetic deformities include:
1. Facial deformities: Congenital or acquired abnormalities affecting the shape, structure, or appearance of the face, such as cleft lip and palate, facial paralysis, or facial asymmetry.
2. Skin deformities: Conditions affecting the skin’s texture, tone, or appearance, such as acne, scars, birthmarks, or skin discoloration.
3. Hair deformities: Abnormalities affecting the hair’s growth, texture, or appearance, such as alopecia, hirsutism, or hair loss due to medical conditions or treatments.
4. Nail deformities: Conditions affecting the shape, size, or appearance of the nails, such as nail fungus, nail psoriasis, or nail trauma.
5. Dental deformities: Abnormalities affecting the shape, size, or appearance of the teeth, such as tooth decay, tooth loss, or malocclusion.
Causes of cosmetic deformities
Cosmetic deformities can result from various factors, including:
1. Genetics: Congenital conditions or inherited traits can cause cosmetic deformities.
2. Trauma: Injuries or accidents can result in cosmetic deformities, such as scars or facial trauma.
3. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as acne, psoriasis, or eczema, can cause cosmetic deformities.
4. Treatments and procedures: Medical treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery, can result in cosmetic deformities.
5. Aging and environmental factors: Aging, sun exposure, and environmental factors can contribute to cosmetic deformities, such as wrinkles, fine lines, or age spots.
Effects of cosmetic deformities
Cosmetic deformities can have significant emotional and psychological effects on individuals, including:
1. Low self-esteem: Cosmetic deformities can lead to feelings of insecurity, self-consciousness, and low self-esteem.
2. Social anxiety: Individuals with cosmetic deformities may experience social anxiety, avoiding social interactions or feeling embarrassed in public.
3. Emotional distress: Cosmetic deformities can cause emotional distress, including depression, anxiety, or stress.
4. Impact on quality of life: Cosmetic deformities can affect an individual’s quality of life, impacting their relationships, career, or overall well-being.
Treatment options for cosmetic deformities
Various treatment options are available to address cosmetic deformities, including:
1. Surgical procedures: Surgical procedures, such as reconstructive surgery, cosmetic surgery, or dermatological surgery, can correct or improve cosmetic deformities.
2. Non-surgical treatments: Non-surgical treatments, such as laser therapy, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion, can address cosmetic concerns, such as skin texture, tone, or appearance.
3. Medical treatments: Medical treatments, such as topical creams, oral medications, or injectable treatments, can address cosmetic concerns, such as acne, hair loss, or nail deformities.
4. Prosthetic and orthotic devices: Prosthetic and orthotic devices, such as wigs, hairpieces, or dental prosthetics, can help individuals with cosmetic deformities.
5. Counselling and therapy: Counselling and therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or psychotherapy, can help individuals cope with the emotional and psychological effects of cosmetic deformities.
Conclusion
Cosmetic deformities can have significant emotional and psychological effects on individuals, impacting their quality of life and overall well-being.
Understanding the types, causes, and effects of cosmetic deformities is crucial in addressing these concerns.
Various treatment options are available, ranging from surgical procedures to non-surgical treatments, medical treatments, prosthetic and orthotic devices, and counselling and therapy.
By seeking professional help and support, individuals with cosmetic deformities can improve their appearance, boost their self-esteem, and enhance their overall quality of life.
Reference
1. “Cosmetic Deformities” by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons
