Memories of childhood Sunday schools, in addition to the Biblical lessons learnt from my maternal grandparents from Assam, are some of the guiding principles that I am proud of.
“Give unto god what is God’s and unto Caesar what is Caesar’s” - usually refers to the tithes and offering. In reality, it is much more - encompassing time, service, responsibilities, etc. Somewhere along the way, we Nagas have merged God’s and Caesar’s jurisdiction as per our convenience. In the natural corollary of things, the universe and all creatures are placed in a value system of checks and balances. Yet, manmade turmoil and turbulences are overtaking this equilibrium. So, where is the conscience of the society when responsible organizations/establishments surrender and succumb their distinct identities and roles of responsibilities into a cauldron of conformity? Who, then, will speak out the rights of the people and voice out concerns on the rampant corruption all around us?
Prohibition in Nagaland is already a mockery and overt attention is shrilled out almost every Sunday to chewing paan, tobacco, alcohol, etc. Yet, there is deathly silence on issues of adultery, crimes against women/children, drug/substance abuse, broken homes, obsessive greed for wealth/material possessions, status symbol of name plates, flashing red lights, breaking every rules and regulations - even the Ten Commandments that Moses brought down from Mount Sinai!
“Will there be any stars in my crown” is nostalgically reminisced but in the current cocktail, can we mouth the words of such songs/hymns? Our hearts, mind and souls be searched, after all, we owe it to the future generations to come.
Dr. N. L Changkija.
A concerned citizen
