I’m sitting in front of the television with most everybody. The top video countdown is on Sirasa TV. Now that I’m up on which Sinhala songs are hot, it’s time to leave. The program is hosted by a guy that looks about 15. He’s probably older but it’s obvious his most loyal fans are the girls of about that age. There’s a number to text message greetings which appear on screen for everybody to see. Here’s an example: “I love you chami. I dedicate dis to u dear. Tharindu.”As this is my twentieth anniversary visit, some people have asked for my views of what has changed the most. The increase in landline and cell telephones strikes me an important change. Wider adoption means convenience for both businesses and individuals. For example, we travelled to Colombo in 1986 in order to reconfirm flights. Today, we simply called.
Most probably, I’d say the electrification of rural areas is another important change. It has brought convenience and a huge change in lifestyle to many. It’s also had side effects such as an increase in private television channels, changes in diet due to refrigeration, and the proliferation of household appliances.
In addition as mentioned previously, private vehicles have choked the developing road system. In turn, this caused a more polluted environment, at least along roadways. In theory the improved highway system should allow for increased movement of goods and people. In actuality, it now takes longer to get from point A to point B. It’s also dirtier and more stressful.
As a conclusion, I should warn that it’s always tricky looking back to make comparisons with the present. The observer undoubtedly undergoes many changes during the same period. I’m a lot happier and more satisfied with my life nowadays. Somewhat contrary to the opinion of others, I’d like to think I’m a lot wiser now too.