Changing family values and significance of International Day of Families
- Hueiyen Lanpao Editorial :: May 15, 2012 -

Dictionary meaning of family says 'it is a fundamental social group in society typically consisting of one or two parents and their children' or ' two or more people who share goals and values, have long-term commitments to one another, and reside usually in the same dwelling place'.

However, meaning of family cannot be put into a limit of words, because family is from where we grow and learn each and every experience of life, and more importantly, the family values in our life.

It is said that most of us realize the meaning of family, when we do not have one. It is a truism we could not negate. The moment a child is born into his merciless world, it is under the protection of the family that the child starts experiencing the joys and sorrows of life.

When the child comes to this world for the first time, he or she has no name, no language, but the family of the child gives a name and teaches the kid how to express his/her feelings in words.

Another important value which family gives us is customs and traditions so that every member in the family leads a disciplined and organized life.

So, the importance of family values as well as support and co-operation among the members could not be undermined in the personality development of an individual, regardless of the direction to which the wind is blowing today.

It is in recognition of this intrinsic values in a family that help in nurturing the growth of an individual as a responsible citizen of the society that May 15 every year is being designated as International Day of Families. This was first established by the General Assembly of the United Nations in 1992.

However, with the passage of time, the challenges faced by families around the world are becoming varied and numerous. So, the observance of International Day of Families focuses on one particular theme each year.

This year's theme, "Ensuring Work-Family Balance", has given emphasis on core issues ranging from the ability of the family to provide economically and emotionally for its members to the need for equal partnership for mutual development and enrichment for each and every member.

To commemorate the International Day of Families, 2012, we have put together four different perspectives in a special feature just to give a heed on how family values have evolved over the years in face of numerous challenges. It may not be exhaustive, but nonetheless, we are sure it would help the people to look at the issue with an open eye.

Because Manipur is no exception to the changes thrust upon this smallest unit of the society in the wake of globalization and western influences.

It is our humble submission that setting out family importance and its values to the 'drifting' present younger generation would save the society from any possible moral degradation where drive against seedy restaurants becomes a necessity rather an intrusion against privacy.