The Demonised Drinkers
‘WHEN does a few lads enjoying some beers turn into a gang of binge drinkers? When does laughing out loud in the street become a breach of the peace? Answer: when you become old.
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‘Watch yer car, mister’ |
The Independent says that we are suffering from something called Victor Meldrew syndrome’, a condition named after the miserabilist character in the television series One Foot in the Grave.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Brian Paddick, head of youth crime for the Metropolitan Police, says the older generations are in danger of demonising the young.
‘Youthful exuberance is increasingly being described as antisocial behaviour.
Says Paddick: When kids used to play football in the street and hit a car people used to not be particularly concerned about it. Now it would probably result in a heated argument in the street between the car owner and the young person.’
Not to mention the name calling, the idle threats and the filming of the entire incident for a slot on TV news about how Britain is out of control.
Not that everyone will listen to Paddick. He is the homosexual copper who was removed from his job as commander of the south London borough of Lambeth after a former lover claimed the officer had smoked cannabis.
But he makes his point well. And he makes it at length: I dont think its fair to take young people in isolation. At the end of the day I think a large part of the solution to disrespect among young people is for them to be treated with more respect themselves, to be treated as young adults, and provide them with something useful and constructive too.’
Yeah. Respect, innit. You dont disrespect them and they wont disrespect you, or nuffink.
And if you cant beat them, why not join them. No, not the police, the yoof.
Next time you see a hoodie at a banks cash machine, stand really close behind him and ask him for a tenner. When you see an isolated yoof at a bus stop, ask him the time and compliment him on his watch. Then ask to borrow it.
And when you spot an aggressive looking youngster locking up his customised hot hatch, walk really close to the vehicle and ask him if hed like you to look after it while hes gone.
Its all a matter of empathy and understanding…’
Posted: 16th, November 2005 | In: Uncategorized Comment | TrackBack | Permalink
