One Phone Call

So faint are the lines that form fails
So blur are the eyes that won't see
So mean are the hearts that won't feel
In the name of love, art survives.

It is a bad omen when the telephone rings in the midst of laughters. I fear that my prediction is true. Recently I was introduced to a young man named Kevin. He is 17 and a budding self-taught photographer. I have seen some of his work s and am impressed. However he sees his career as a medical doctor, which I am glad. Photography can always be a hobby.

Before anything could happen, parents can be the most ruthless people. Kevin was banned from photography. He called me just a while ago to inform that he is leaving for London next Monday. An ultimatum from his dad and he was not allowed to take his camera along. Upon getting his results he shall return home and prepare for pre-medical school in India. For the time being he is not permitted to waste time taking photographs. Kevin's uncle is a principal pharmacist in London.

Why? Artists are often misunderstood as squanderers and pigment of vices. But it is thru Art that values and morality are kept alive.

I am not fighting a course. Who am I to burden such a heavy load? I just hope that the youth of the day understands the importance of personal development and not undermine it by placing chains of restrictions around it. As much as they want to pursue a career path they shouldn't neglect their emotional needs. But do parents understand such dire needs and nurture their children completely?

Look at the youths today. They partake in gang fights, vandalism and even conspire in murders. All because they want to belong to a group. As humans we have the sense of belonging to a community that shares the same interest as us. Simply said they need a hobby, a healthy activity to motivate their creativity and help them grow emotionally.

It is the job of the Artist to excite the youths to think emotionally. A good movie encourages its viewers not to give up on their dreams and to perseverre. A tender song heals a broken heart. A tragedy depicted in a painting touches the soul.

People can have so much of money and still be poor. Does anyone even understand this statement?

I sincerely wish Kevin and all the youth out there a successful journey in life.