By: Arbaz Manzoor
The world is constantly progressing as time and circumstances change. People strive to free themselves from difficulties and equip their lives with comfort and convenience. Just as seasons change, so does the way humans live. Despite this evolution and access to modern facilities, many people in our society continue to live as they did in the past. Surprisingly, even with fewer resources and less education, earlier generations were more mindful of their surroundings compared to today’s educated populace.
One would expect that modern humans, benefiting from technological advancements and access to education, would adopt better habits and be more considerate of their impact on others. Yet, the harsh truth remains: most people prioritize personal gain over collective good. In every action, self-interest often comes before the welfare of the community. In earlier times, despite limited literacy, people were guided by a strong moral compass, often influenced by the teachings of experienced elders. They would think carefully before acting, minimizing harm to society.
Today, even with widespread education, impulsive actions have become common, leading to unintended negative consequences. Take, for example, national cleanliness campaigns. Authorities promote awareness about maintaining cleanliness, visiting homes and villages to educate people on keeping their surroundings tidy. They emphasize how a clean environment can secure a healthier future for the next generation by mitigating health and environmental risks. Despite these efforts, many fail to grasp the importance of cleanliness in daily life.
A simple observation of public places—rivers, streams, streets, and tourist spots—reveals the pervasive problem of pollution. The sight of litter and waste is disheartening, yet when people themselves contribute to this mess, they conveniently overlook their own responsibility. It is common to blame others for polluting, but rarely do individuals reflect on their own actions. This double standard perpetuates environmental degradation, highlighting the urgent need for personal accountability.
Every person in society must realize that maintaining cleanliness and protecting the environment begins with individual behavior. Without adopting this responsibility, one cannot claim to be a good citizen. Pollution not only harms the environment but also endangers human health and well-being. It’s a tragic irony that the very places we pollute may hold special significance for others. A deeper understanding of these shared spaces can foster greater respect for communal well-being.
The passage of time brings technological and societal advancements, yet the reluctance to change harmful habits remains a significant challenge. True progress requires recognizing the importance of self-improvement for the greater good. The faster we adapt, the better the future we can create. In this era of rapid change, it’s essential to act consciously and consider the impact of our actions on others.
We pride ourselves on living in an educated age, but education must translate into thoughtful, responsible behavior. Avoiding actions that cause harm to others is not a difficult task; it simply requires intention and mindfulness. If changing for the better is not impossible, why do so many resist? It’s often said that seasons change effortlessly—why, then, do we struggle to change our destructive habits? Reflecting on this question and making deliberate efforts to improve is not just advisable—it’s imperative for a better society and a brighter future.
