Meritorious Service Award recipient, Zetma Augustine-Toussaint, has encouraged the youth on island to recognize and look up to the elderly since they are the ones who paved the way in society.
Toussaint, who serves as President of the Dominica Council on Aging (DCOA), received the award for Health Management at the Parade of Uniformed Groups on Independence Day, November 3.
“I want to also send a message to the youth to recognize and regard the elderly because the elderly have paved the way for us and so we in turn has to now cherish them and learn from them,” she said in an interview after receiving the award.
An elated Toussaint thanked God for granting her the opportunity to receive the award.
“I feel very elated, I feel very happy and I want to first of all give thanks and praise to the Almighty Father because He is the one who has me here and I trust in Him and He is the one who has given me the strength and courage to work throughout my life,” she stated.
Toussaint also thanked her family and all those who have supported her over the years.
Because DNO is read in Canada and around the world the good work being done by Zeta Augustine – Toussaint and others in different fields comes to the attention of people like myself so many miles away.
Thank you Zelma Augustine – Toussaint for reminding young people of the importance of showing kindness towards their elders. You are contributing towards building a better society and a better world.
By setting an example ourselves we are showing our children the right things to do. As we get older they will act the same way towards us as they have seen us act towards our parents and grandparents. It is a Biblical principle for success and a good life. As we sow we also reap
Any country where the elderly are neglected and treated badly will suffer in various ways. The good they tried to teach us will be disregarded. Young people will take a different path than what made those who have gone before them respected members of society.
Sincerely, Rev. Donald Hill…
As a fellow supporter of initiatives for seniors in the region, I want to say congratulations to Ms. Toussaint and the Dominica Council on Aging. Continue encouraging citizens to revere our older persons who have worked tirelessly for our nations.
Again, congratulations!