This statement is far from becoming a reality. Many wars are happening across the Middle East, especially with the recent Syrian and Yemini uprisings. The civil war in Sudan, which lead to the formation of North, and South Sudan. Post war attacks are still occurring in Afghanistan and Iraq.
So many crimes, upsets and tragedies make this statement somewhat difficult to believe. Now, the latest spark of violence that’s happening literally on our doorsteps are the UK Riots. Something that began with a peaceful protest over the controversial killing of 29-year-old Mark Duggan has now lead to violent sporadic outbursts of violence across major cities in the UK.
Streets have become vandalised, shops looted and people’s livelihoods have been destroyed, all for what? To steal a few trainers from Footlocker? Or grab a 32“ LCD television from Currys? I think there a number of reasons, that have resulted in these riots, lack of education, Police becoming less authoritative but most importantly, lack of family values.
David Cameron put core family values forward as part of his campaign prior to becoming Prime minister.
David Cameron put core family values forward as part of his campaign prior to becoming Prime minister.
He said: "We want to see a more responsible society, where people behave in a decent and civilised way, where they understand their obligations to others, to their neighbours, to their country.
"And above all, to their family.
"Families are the most important institution in our society. We have to do everything in our power to strengthen them."
"Everyone has to play their part in this - not just the state but individuals, community organisations, business too.
"Families also need those simple basic things: a good local school, a reliable local doctor and safe streets for the children to play in.”
Do these riots highlight the lack of family structure in British society? I believe so. It seems some have lost the respect for their family, their teachers, the law enforcement but most importantly our parents. Parents being most important because they have provided us with life, they have protected us when we were young, defenceless children and even now they continue to protect us in our adulthood and they have taught us our rights from wrongs. Such simple things, but things we can sometimes forget.
Below is a shloka from the Upanishads, which I keep close to my heart.
Matru devo bhavah
Pitru devo bhavah
Acharya devo bhavah
Athiti devo bhavah
Treat mother as God
Treat father as God
Treat the teacher as God
Treat the guest as God
The term Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam isn’t entirely being ignored altogether. The examples below are a clear indication that we do look out for one another. In areas such as Manchester and Woolwich, people from the community gave up their time voluntarily, to help clean the streets and shopping areas. Even the London Mayor, Boris Johnson joined in with the clean up campaign in Clapham Junction.
But what was significantly striking to me and to many others was the support between the different faith groups in protecting their community and places of worship. Sikhs, Muslims and Hindus have stood up against these riots, helping each other to combat injustice.
So, it seems there are instances where the shloka does come into practice, where people will unite for a common cause. However in order to understand the deeper meaning of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, we must become living examples of it.
Another great article, probably should have read them in order, have a read of this article:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.dailymail.co.uk/debate/article-2025393/UK-riots-Haroon-Jahan-death-Legacy-society-believes-nothing.html