WHEN IMMORALITY BECOMES A NORM
“The first principle of value that we need to discover is this;that all reality hinges on moral foundations. In other words, that this is a moral universe and that there are moral law of the universe just as abiding as the physical laws” –Martin Luther King
Yorubas will say, “iluti o basiofin,kosiese” (where there is no law, there is no sin). The moral standard of every individual is judged by their ability to control themselvesin the place of freedom, but it has become so sadden that immoral conducts are now seen as a norm in our society.AFASites enjoyed a remarkable degree of freedom at the excursion they embarked on for two days. They had a disturbance free night; away from their academic environment and activities. Some AFASites went gaga due to the excitement and freedom that they began to display a sense of irresponsibility by engaging in immoral activities. It is no crime to have fun but there are billions of ways to enjoy oneself without hurting one’s conscience.
At this stage in live, it is necessary that one enjoys some degree of freedom as anything outside that will be considered as absurd. Freedom is the state of being free; not under confinement. If then we claim that we enjoy some degree of freedom, are we then to incarcerate ourselves with shameful and immoral acts. Without trying to be judgmental, I can clearly state that though AFASites were free but some of them were only free imprison themselves in immoral acts.
Many claimed that they are “youths” and use this as an excuse to whatever action they undertake. “I am responsible for all my actions” can be heard from most students but being responsible demands that we take practical steps to knowing the right thing to do and doing them which is bedrock of maturity. Being youthful means you are full of vigour and great vitality, but don’t we think that this strength should be spent on better things than immorality. We have a long way to go; the future of this country lies in our hands. The University of Ibadan motto says “in character and learning” character comes before learning because there are some activities than can dissuade one from learning. You cannot show people what you have got upstairs when you are not morally upright becauseimmorality shoves you from opportunities of meeting great people in life.
Learning for four years or more is not only because we want to acquire certificates but because we want to be assets in the society and make it a better place for posterity so we can be called blessed. Although, we blame our leaders for the present state of the society and we tagged them as the corrupt ones, but if we cannot control ourselves at this stage, how then do we intend to do that when the nation’s wealth gets into our hands and there is nobody to monitor the way we spend our money or body. A great leader is known by what he/she exhibits while he is still youthful. At this stage, we are to make certain decisions, inculcate certain habits that will make the country a better place.
In conclusion, I am not writing to judge or state some acts at the excursion I consider as immoral but I will end with this quote by Ernest Hemingway “ so far, about morals, I know only that what is moral is what you feel good after and what is immoral is what you feel bad after. At this point,I leave us to be the judge of our actions.
– SIMPLE BEE
