Inatoli K Jimo
Bayavü, Kohima
Let me first mention that this is an honest insight into the plight of the young Nagas; a write up from my personal experiences alongside my comprehension of how the blame game is played between the young and the old.
People used to tell me to do well in life so that someday my voice will be heard (when I was younger). Someone once told me, “You should not reply to your elders even when you’re right because that is not the way things run”. I never understood why, and I still don’t know why. I strongly believe that humanity will prevail only when the right is spoken, and heard, and understood: irrespective of age or any society created barriers.
Have you heard of the Naga cliché, “Not your time yet, wait for the right moment”. I’m sure you have, especially if you are a young talented, ambitious or outspoken person. I don’t know how many young Nagas who “should have been/ could have been” great at something were not able to, just because they were pushed back by the many critics who said it was too early for them, or that they should wait till the water is settled and cleared. Many parents tell their children to grow up, and share their burdens and responsibilities; but do not allow their children to have a say in family matters, forget about what they themselves had taught them. I know a frustrated educated young lady who once had to scream at her parents, “You told me to be educated. I got the best education possible. Now that I’m educated and much learned than you- you won’t allow me to use what you’ve paid for me to learn. How then, shall I make use of the expensive education I got if I’m not allowed to even give an opinion of my own!” because they were not willing to listen to what she had to say. Well, that was such an outburst that I just couldn’tignore. I spent many hours, and days and weeks if I am to exaggerate, thinking about it. I thought what a lucky girl I was, to have a family where I’m allowed to share my thoughts openly; but that didn’t stop me from thinking that many young people were in the same position as my friend was. Our society is still clinging on to the norms of the head hunting days when one had to wait and hunt at the right moment, which is, in many ways hindering the next generation to move forward.
On many seminars and sermons, I keep hearing that “Investment should be made on the young people”, and young people are encouraged to break the barriers and climb the social ladders to bring change in our society. But ask any young person, you’ll be surprised to know that change should start from the older section of the society. The older generation has to understand that the young people are willing to bring change and progress, if only they are given a chance to take risks- and not have to wait for the right time or the right opportunity to chase their dreams or to voice out publicly. Parents, teachers and mentors equally have to understand the potentialities and the capabilities of the young ones and encourage them to perfect whatever they are good at, without belittling or laughing at them for the little mistakes they make while they try. Nothing is more humiliating and discouraging than when someone close to us makes fun of us when we are sincerely trying our best to achieve our dreams. After all, Rome was not built in a day.
On the other hand, I think “we” the younger generation also have to persevere and keep on trying, breaking all the barriers and instead build bridges through where the society can cross over to a new era. Being “Jack of all trades, master of none” may also prove to be a blessing when you know something of everything and try hard enough to be master of all. Personally, I believe that we shouldn’t be waiting for the perfect time but I guess we’ll never know until we try!
I still don’t know who is to be blamed, for the many great things that young people could have but couldn’t do. I’m not the judge, never intended to be. But one message for the young ones like me, “Let us prove them wrong. Let us make them regret, for saying that we won’t make it”.
