Reflecting on simple and happy times of fun and adventure. The 70s, 80s and 90s, eras of carefree and free love.
This week Youth Life speaks to former Miss Sri Lanka and actress Angela Seneviratne. We go down memory lane and she shares her good memories and experiences with the younger generation.
Q: What do you want to tell your younger self?
A: Thank you for all the innocence of childhood, adolescence, youth and early adulthood, the extensive learning processes that error and experience gave, the adventures and excitement that gave vibrancy and colour, and for the increase in patience, resilience and hope through all the time.
Q: Any regrets?
A: In all honesty, none. I have become who I am through all of life’s experiences, the good, the bad and the ugly. I chose to cherish all of the good and joy.
Q: The best times of your life?
A: That’s a tough question to decipher and answer!! Simply because all of the years, stages, and segments of my technicoloured existence have had so many unexpected and unforgettable blessings, successes and incredible fortunes. Miracles even! I’ve met and shared my life with the ordinary, unique and fabulous people who gave me an education at the University of Life. The best time is every day I think.
Q: What does your generation have that this generation doesn’t?
A: My generation by large existed on simplicity, with little in terms of luxury. I think even the wealthiest on this island had less materialistic riches than those of today. Lifestyles were simpler. Respect for elders, one’s faith, educators, and community was on a more solid level. ‘FUN’ as in company and among friends was more innocent and clean, devoid of permissive thinking and trending on such lines. Parents of that era instilled the value of politeness and obedience, thus my generation had less freedom. Yes, there was the odd rule-breaker, but as a whole, it was an elder controlled generation.
Q: What does this generation have that your generation didn’t have?
A: All of the above in reverse. All the imaginable temptations, materialistic and otherwise The new rich. Children do not know the value of money, they take everything for granted, and also demand more than what is good for them. Respect and regard have evidently and sadly diminished.
The middle-class generation and the ones of lower-income groups are severely in want, desiring and greedy to be on par with the ‘haves ‘and are naturally frustrated, disappointed and angry people being unable to access all that is flaunted easily. I say that the fault lies with their parents who spoiled this new generation and lost control of them. It is gratifying to say that some parents steadfastly held on to the reins and guided their children in the straight and narrow.
Q: Your advice to the current generation?
A: Communication with your elders is important as modern life has its tremendous challenges, weights, pressures and demands. Always articulate your thoughts, fears and concerns to elders you trust. Don’t forget that they have passed the very same age you are at now, yes, in a different way, but more grounded. Remember that you will bring forth the next generation. It is in your hands to veer away the evils of society from your young since you know of all the viles and dangers targeting children.
Integrity, honesty, respect, understanding, patience tolerance communication, and kindness are the most important attributes you need to empower yourself to exist in peace and harmony in this life acquire it now! Practice it every day at home, school, workplace, community and society.