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  Straits Times Forum 8 Sep 06
What message and values are we passing on to the young by culling cats
Letter from Claudia Tan Danwei (Miss)

ALTHOUGH I probably would not be categorized as an avid cat lover, I am saddened by the way in which we cull stray cats (even sterilised ones) to solve the problem of these 'nuisances'.

What does it say of our society? It says that we cannot and will not tolerate these beautiful and harmless creatures.

We are willing and even determined to conveniently snuff out living, breathing creatures in exchange (no doubt an unfair one) for a little more peace and quiet. We have become so comfortable in a society of 'quick- fixes' that we fail to see the cost of our actions.

How is it that we do not feel a prick in our conscience? I cannot bear to imagine the lack of compassion such a society contains and breeds.

As an aspiring educator, I say we need to bring up our children to have life values, not merely textbook knowledge. It does not speak well of us to explain to our children why these furry friends are being 'put to sleep' indefinitely. (And we wonder and lament why people, especially the youth, these days are selfish, discourteous, rude and unfeeling.)

Mahatma Gandhi had so aptly expressed: 'The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.' When we are able to impart the important values of empathy, compassion, tolerance and understanding, I believe we can truly say we have successfully brought up our children well, to empower them to make good and wise decisions.

Culling cats to solve the 'problems' of strays is not one of them.

I believe each and every decision has an impact and says much about those who make these decisions.

If our society cannot tolerate even adorable and harmless felines, I cannot imagine what else.

Let me admit I am truly ashamed. We have certainly made a mistake in our decision and played God, resulting in many innocent lives being prematurely curtailed. Let's not take the no doubt easiest, but heartless solution.

We have the capacity to do better. Let's not be rash and plan, discuss and then execute, as we have always done. I believe we can do better. This issue sends out a message: Are our values and morals in the right place? Please let's make it a resounding YES!
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