Exercising some control is a must
Syed Mustafa Ahmad, Iqra Bashir
Freedom is one of the most cherished goals of every human being. Nobody wishes to live in a cage or spend life under unnecessary restrictions. Every individual desires the freedom to think, speak, and make choices.
Indeed, freedom is a beautiful and invaluable blessing that enables human beings to grow, express themselves, and realise their potential. However, freedom is meaningful only when it is exercised with wisdom, responsibility, and respect for moral and social values. When it is misunderstood as the licence to do anything without limits, it can become harmful for both individuals and society.
A careful look at the world around us reveals that everything in nature functions according to well-defined laws. The sun rises and sets at its appointed time, the planets revolve in their fixed orbits, and the seasons follow a regular cycle.
This perfect order reminds us that harmony is possible only when there are rules and discipline. Likewise, human society can enjoy peace and stability only when freedom is exercised within reasonable limits. Rights and responsibilities are inseparable, and lasting liberty can never exist without self-restraint.
Unfortunately, many people today mistake freedom for the right to do whatever they please. This misunderstanding often leads to irresponsible behaviour. Some students spend countless hours on mobile phones, social media, and online games in the name of freedom, neglecting their studies and wasting valuable time.
Others disregard the advice of parents and teachers, believing that independence means rejecting guidance. Such misuse of freedom weakens character, affects academic performance, and distances young people from their goals.
The harmful effects of unnecessary freedom are also visible in society. Reckless driving, the spread of misinformation, cyberbullying, environmental pollution, substance abuse, and various forms of crime often result from people ignoring laws and moral values.
When individuals place personal desires above the welfare of others, peace and social harmony are disturbed. Freedom without responsibility eventually becomes a source of conflict rather than progress.
History teaches us that no civilisation can flourish without discipline and respect for law. Every right is accompanied by a corresponding duty. A responsible citizen enjoys freedom while respecting the rights of others, obeying the law, and contributing positively to society. True liberty is not the absence of rules but the ability to make wise choices within a moral and legal framework.
Parents and teachers play a vital role in helping children understand the true meaning of freedom. They should encourage young people to think independently and express their opinions while also teaching honesty, self-control, compassion, respect, and accountability. Such guidance helps children become responsible citizens who use their freedom for constructive purposes rather than destructive ones.
In the modern age, where technology has become an inseparable part of daily life, the need for self-discipline is greater than ever. The internet and social media offer countless opportunities for learning, communication, and creativity, but they also require wisdom and restraint.
Freedom should never become an excuse for wasting time, spreading hatred, or harming others. Rather, it should inspire individuals to pursue knowledge, serve humanity, and contribute to the common good.
Let us pledge to leave no stone unturned in upholding the principle of responsible and limited liberty. Unrestrained freedom is not a sign of progress; rather, it often undermines the interests of society and weakens the values that bind communities together.
Our society needs freedom accompanied by responsibility, discipline, and respect for laws so that every individual can develop in a safe, peaceful, and harmonious environment. Only when liberty is balanced with duty can it become a true force for personal growth, social stability, and national progress.
(Syed Mustafa Ahmad is a teacher and Iqra Bashir is a class 9 student at Government Boys’ Higher Secondary School, Zainakote, Srinagar)
