Le Plus ca change

Priyanka Gulati

The goings on at the recently concluded World Youth Bridge Championships has left a dirty taste in everybody's mouths.

The other day, while chatting with my son about how the young generation questions more and loves luxury, I shared some widely discussed bridge incidents from various WhatsApp groups. He responded with a quote:

"Our youth now love luxury. They have bad manners, contempt for authority; they show disrespect for their elders and love chatter in place of exercise; they no longer rise when elders enter the room; they contradict their parents, chatter before company, and gobble up their food."

"Mumma, what do you think?" he asked. I found myself resonating with it. Our generation had it harder, caught in the sandwich of obeying our parents and managing our kids. Curiously, I asked him, "Who wrote this?"

His answer stunned me: "Socrates, 400 BC"

Every generation seems to think the next isn't as good. Is it truly a reflection of reality, or just a mindset? I'm not defending any generation, but last year we saw great results without a solid system or culture in place.

Success doesn't just rely on individual brilliance but on creating a system where the young can flourish. Do we have cultural training for our youth? Do we guide them through the dos and don'ts? What are the behaviors that foster success?

It's time to build a culture that not only questions but also respects, thrives, and excels. Let's create an environment where the future can truly shine.

(For that, the seniors need to set a good example for them. The reported behavior at the Summer Nationals only serves to encourage the youngsters to believe that there is nothing wrong with their actions - Eds)

Disclaimer : All opinions are entirely those of the author and are no reflection of the views of the BridgeFromHome Team.