66. An observational approach is essential

The process of disintegration is rapidly spreading across different sectors. We are in an era of crunch that speeds up this trend. The key issue is the severe talent shortage. This situation is quite concerning, not because the new generation is overly absorbed in gadgets or inherently dull.

The cause is actually elsewhere. Factors at home and school have a greater influence, even though many people attribute the blame to government policies.

Robert Half stated in a lecture that what is much rarer than ability itself is the skill to recognize ability.

Recognizing a child's potential at an early age is crucial, but this aspect is entirely overlooked. Even at home, little attention is paid to nurturing children's mental and behavioral development. In today's rapidly changing world, who has the time for this? 

Teachers often become too indifferent to these nuances. Their personal growth—mental, educational, and intellectual—stops after earning a Teachers Training Certificate and beginning their careers.

Ideas can only be planted if one has them, but unfortunately, such ideas are often scarce due to their self-centered nature.

I read a short story that illustrates this troubling situation and a possible solution. Outside a bookstore, there was always a box of second-hand books. One student noticed a required book and read a chapter each day because he couldn't afford to buy it.

Eventually, he saved enough money to purchase it, only to be disappointed when he found it had already been taken from the shop. 

When he asked about the book, the shopkeeper retrieved it from a shelf behind him and handed it to the young student, saying, “A gentleman came in wanting to buy it, but I knew you had not finished reading it.”

This type of observational approach is essential, and the most suitable starting point is at home.

If the child shows interest in painting, they should be given colors and paper. If they are interested in games, the required equipment for their preferred game should be provided.

First, the older generation should cultivate more nuanced ideas and elevate their thinking, recognizing that these concepts can't flourish within their limited, narrow minds. 

After all, some ideas prosper more when shared with others. This is a national responsibility.