Woodbridge, Virginia – In a thought-provoking Facebook post, Steve Bundor, an eminent young Liberian communication specialist, calls on churches and religious leaders to expand their focus beyond spirituality and address pressing social issues within the community. Bundor highlights a growing concern over what he perceives as a “lazy generation” with a mindset focused on “social fantasy,” urging religious leaders to promote hard work and integrity values.
Bundor expresses his dismay at the number of individuals who are unemployed yet unwilling to take up teaching or other honorable professions. “Many individuals are jobless yet too proud to take up teaching or other honorable professions,” he writes. He questions the attitude of those who reject opportunities to work, asking, “Which is more honorable, begging or earning through honest labor?”
He further criticizes the preference for a lifestyle of dependency over productive work, sharing his frustration with a common refrain: “They often say, ‘If you give me 2000, I will appreciate it. You know it’s not easy.’ What’s not easy? Is it their refusal to work, teach, or sell clothes, or is it the lifestyle of begging?”
Bundor’s post goes beyond economic issues, addressing what he sees as a disconnect between religious practices and real-world skills. He points out that some individuals prioritize spiritual displays over personal and economic growth, often lacking the necessary skills for employment. “Religious leaders are not instilling in them a realistic path or mindset that embraces this generation,” he asserts.
In a call to action, Bundor urges religious leaders to challenge this mindset and encourage a strong work ethic. “They need to teach their congregations that dignity lies in honest labor, not in begging or living a false life,” he emphasizes. He believes that by embracing every opportunity, regardless of its perceived status, individuals can strive for excellence and foster genuine spiritual growth.
Bundor concludes with a powerful message about the need for collective change in Liberia. “True change comes from the people themselves. By teaching this generation the reality and true value of life, they will align with the true purpose of life expectancy and existence,” he states. He emphasizes that the progressive, developmental change anticipated for the nation must begin with a shift in mindset among citizens, supported by the united efforts of religious leaders.
Bundor’s post has sparked a conversation about the role of religious institutions in shaping societal values and the importance of aligning spiritual teachings with practical life skills. As Liberia continues to navigate its path toward progress, voices like Bundor’s call for a holistic approach to community development, where spirituality and social responsibility go hand in hand.
Liberian-born Emmanuel Orlind Cooper is an accomplished multimedia journalist with extensive experience covering news and stories on a variety of media platforms. Orlind's work frequently demonstrates his profound grasp of the region and its complexity, given his Liberian heritage.
Now residing in Woodbridge, Virginia, he keeps connecting with readers across continents with his perceptive journalism and sharing his viewpoint. He is well-respected in the sector because of his unwavering commitment to honesty and morality, which sets him apart in the field.
Orlind's work is more than simply his job; it's a dedication to giving voice to the voiceless, illuminating unsung tales, and advancing the worldwide conversation on important concerns. His goal as a journalist is to use the media's power to change the world, not just to disseminate information. He is a key player in modern journalism because of the inspiration, education, and engagement that his work consistently provides.