Responsibility

It is difficult to build things and easy to destroy them. Sometimes a moment of thoughtlessness can cause great damage.

It has just been reported that the recent fire in California, which has burned down many houses and forced thousands to be evacuated, may have been started by a student bonfire that was not properly extinguished. It seems very obvious that people lighting a fire should make absolutely sure that it is put out before leaving.

Responsibility requires people to take a wider view. It involves thinking ahead, thinking about possible consequences, and thinking about other people. Acting responsibly should come naturally to properly educated people. It should become second nature, part of one's habits.