Advice to 15-yr-old self: 'Go green. Be compassionate'

We'd asked you, dear readers, to write a message to your 15-year-old self.
Rediff reader Rana Mahal, 64 from Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh shares his advice:

Dear 15-year-old self,

You have entered an important stage in life -- adolescence.

This is the time you are going to be launched into the world in a country where you and your privileged education can make a difference.

Too late in life one realises that we have passed most of our time.

So, study, make a career and find a life partner when you are settled.

Here's my advice:

You are living in India where poverty is rampant. Be compassionate and supportive to the underprivileged.

You are lucky to be born in affluence and that should make you sensitive to the people around.

Every human being has been born into his circumstances and is struggling for existence.

Do not copy the West and ruin your environment.

Be wary of pollution and waste management.

Practice self-restraint, shun excessive consumerism and move on to more eco-friendly transportation.

Be sensitive to the issues around you and I'm sure you'll secure the environment for your children.

Go green. And that doesn't mean just planting trees.

Each balcony and roof top in the city should have potted flowers and vegetables.

Remember every green leaf fights environmental pollution.

Also you'll have your organic vegetables and remain close to Nature.

Remember it's not about what you take from the world. It's about what you give back to it.

Work hard. Love your family. Love humanity.

Finally, restrain your media use; instead connect to people. There is no substitute to the human touch.

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INVITE

Dear readers, what would you like to tell your 15-year-old self?

To love more? To let go?

To learn from your mistakes or deal with failures better?

What's the one message/advice you'd like to share with your younger self?

Simply write a letter and send it to getahead@rediff.co.in (subject: Dear 15-year-old self) along with your NAME, AGE, LOCATION and a photograph, if possible. We'll feature the best responses right here on Rediff.com.