INNER BEAUTY IN OUTER ACTIONS

Although it is disturbing to hear about kids exchanging sex for drugs, I
have to admit that I wasn't too surprised. Even though many of us may not
be shocked, I believe we must all be concerned, as this activity certainly
serves as an indicator of our youth [and society's] current moral condition.

In the book The Picture of Dorian Gray, Oscar Wilde shows the ramifications
of neglecting the soul. In this story, the character of Dorian Gray decides
to live according to his own will and desires. Although, Dorian Gray's
physical appearance appears to be unaffected by such a lifestyle, a
painting of him reveals the disturbing effects that his lifestyle has had
on his soul.

Today, people in society often live much like Dorian Gray in the sense that
they neglect the soul, which is the centre of morality and spirituality. As
the soul is damaged a person becomes more demoralized and immoral, and
his/her ability to live morally is further reduced or diminished. More and
more people in society are living any way they wish without regard for how
their actions are affecting themselves.

However, a person's outer appearance may give a false impression about his
or her inner [or actual] well-being. This problem is further compounded or
intensified when people live according to their own subjective moral
standards that they set for themselves.

If we ever hope for kids to avoid looking like the painting of Dorian Gray,
we need to address the heart of the matter, morality.

Brett Kruselnicki, Abbotsford