Walking through Contramaestre today is quite unpleasant, with the stench in public spaces caused by the urine of many adults who, without any shame, have turned this basic human need into a bad habit that undermines good manners and hygiene in the city.
This deplorable situation, which reflects the loss of values instilled from early childhood, demonstrates that the lessons learned in the past are no longer part of the daily behavior of many people.
Sadly, our city has become a public urinal, a problem that is proliferating daily, on every corner, sidewalk, restaurant entrance, and even in the streets themselves, where, day or night, it is shocking to see people shamelessly disrespecting the urgent need to urinate.
I confess I’ve never before witnessed such impunity on this matter. It’s common to see men urinating against trees or posts in the presence of women, children, and the elderly. This inappropriate behavior creates a public health hazard and an affront to morality and the norms of social conduct.
Undoubtedly, this behavior is part of the growing social indiscipline; it’s intolerant, shameful, and depressing. It constitutes a violation of the law and society’s obligations.
It’s reprehensible, for example, to urinate in doorways across from the Café Cantante or any private food establishment, on the corners near our radio station, or in front of the centrally located El Sol candy store.
While it’s true that there are mitigating factors such as potential health problems, the consumption of such a popular beer, and even the limited availability of public restrooms for such purposes, it’s also true that those who engage in this practice should be fined by the appropriate authorities in order to curb this custom, which is detrimental to morality and civic responsibility.
For now, let this comment serve as a reflection on a social problem that affects behavior and environmental health, because if this custom continues, my city, our city, the city of us all, will lose even more of its luster and appeal.
