Stamp out greedy attitudes in society

The issue of greed where persons only look out for themselves is an attitude that is unfortunately increasing in society and it is one that must be kicked to the curb as soon as possible.

 

This is coming from the Dean of The Cathedral Church of Saint Michael and All Angels, the Most Reverend Dr. Jeffrey Gibson, who delivered the sermon at the special service for the Barbadian Diaspora community held at The Cathedral Church of Saint Michael and All Angels recently.

 

He said that this attitude in intensified in part by the promotion of consumerism, which leads persons to do everything possible to make sure that they get ahead.

 

“Modern society needs to address the rampant spirit of greed which threatens to turn us into people who only look out for personal interests. The dominant culture of consumerism places a lot of pressure on individuals to satisfy self-interest, consequently, there is a tendency to pay little or no attention to the welfare of persons, especially the less fortunate.”

 

Another concern that was raised by the Dean was that of a desire to go after the pleasures of life to the extent that, in some cases, it is at the expense of hard work, failing to recognize that it is this hard work that builds character and contributes to the well-being of others.

 

“In addition, the preoccupation with pleasure tends to paint a picture of a future in which indulging in leisure and recreation is at the expense of conscientious work. A strong work ethic is compromised, one which is undergirded by the idea that there is a moral benefit to work – shaping character and building neighbourliness, ought to remain vital to the working environment. We should be inspired by the diligence of our forebears, who were prepared to be adventurous and to place their skills and energies at the disposal of others in a world they did not know.”

 

The Reverend said that there is nothing wrong in seeking more just as long as you use this in a positive way by working hard and sharing what you have with your fellow man.

 

“And so, my brothers and sisters in Christ, the generation of wealth is a means to serve humanity. It can bring about the development of character and receive the approval by God. As we seek to enhance the capacity of our citizens we should commit ourselves to hard work and the provision of our daily needs, not hoarding but contributing to the well-being of our neighbours. By so doing, in actual fact, we would be making ourselves rich with God.”