Fiji is currently facing a pressing issue with drug addiction, which Josateki Labalaba attributes to familial dynamics. As the leader of the Provide Young Generations Movement in Every Situation (PYGMES) Youth Club, Labalaba expressed concern over the increasing number of individuals struggling with substance abuse, pointing out that the roots of this problem often lie in family disobedience and neglect.
During a recent community service effort, where Labalaba and his team of youth volunteers helped clean the Golden Age Home in Lautoka, they encountered elderly residents who shared feelings of abandonment. This experience served as a poignant reminder of the importance of family responsibility. Labalaba urged the community to care for their elders, highlighting that the high number of patients at St Giles Hospital is not solely about drug addiction, but rather a reflection of familial disregard.
He emphasized the cultural and biblical principle that bestows long life and prosperity upon those who honor their parents, underscoring the correlation between familial respect and overall community well-being. Labalaba noted that neglecting these values often leads to detrimental consequences, including poor health, poverty, and imprisonment.
In urging families to prioritize love and obedience towards parents, he believes that this not only honors them but also sets a foundation for a brighter future. Labalaba’s message resonates as a call for societal reflection on the significance of family dynamics in addressing broader community issues like drug abuse.
This serves as a hopeful reminder that by fostering a culture of care and respect within families, Fiji can combat the challenges posed by addiction and create a more supportive environment for future generations.
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