It amazes me when, by chance, I have spelt a word wrong on Facebook – whether it was a typing error or a word misspelt in error, most people are quick to correct me or bring it to my attention.
This makes me accept that most people are well-learned as it relates to the English language and can differentiate one word from another and can determine its meaning and purpose of communication and its value and alert us all.
Pronunciation and the grammar associated with the word are clearly articulated, but the problem I have is, if so many people have a perfect understanding of the language and understand its context and intended purpose, why do we live contrary to the true meaning of words? Why do we live contrary to our understanding?
Why don’t words like “empathy”, “respect” “forgiveness” or “consideration” be practiced or be accepted more than they are?
We tend to have a social attitude about how we relate to each other. Rules and laws that are supposed to be our guide seem to be ignored and, in some cases, discarded or disregarded; and we have constant violations of the laws by persons committing crude criminal actions, with impunity.
As it relates to driving laws and rules on our roads, almost everybody breaks them, no regulated speed limits, no overtaking rules, no dimming of lights when on the highway, bikers do not use protected gear, the state doesn’t have speed limit signs or painted sleeping policemen, and breathalyzers are not part of the rules, and parking rules are not being enforced.
There are no regulations in the city or anywhere else and when there is a disruption nobody gives any indication that there is an accident on the route. Opening and closing times for business of any type seem to have gone with the wind, jaywalking is common practice, and pedestrian crossings are crossed at any time, regardless of traffic lights; and seldom will you find a police officer available to deal with such conduct.
As it relates to noise pollution, or after-hour disturbing noise from private businesses regardless if they operate in a housing community or not, these days we have hi-fi vehicles. These days you cannot hear a song, especially in Creole, if it is not laced with smutty content, with no regard for the children. The elderly is treated like trash and the code of dress is often disregarded.
Criminality is rampant and nobody cares if they are identified as a suspect or perpetrator. In the service world, employees care little about standards, and price-gouging is the order of the day because regulations are nonexistent.
In some Government circles you hear about mismanagement and the siphoning of public funds and no one is held responsible, and the legal system protects those who have name or money.
Job opportunities are for the young and many women have to sleep with their bosses to keep their jobs; everybody has an excuse for being late, few employees are committed, and stealing and ripping off your employer is common practice.
So, if the words have meaning and interpretation and values, why have we as a people become so don’t-careish and not law-abiding? How can we become an example to the young when there are few role models? How can things get better if everyone does their own thing?
With no regulations, no standards or respect for law and order, I can’t foresee a better tomorrow or a better standard of living. Morals and values need to be re-examined because tomorrow depends on today; and if the system is broken and the attitude of the masses is as is, then crapo smoke our pipe!