The passing away of Alfred Bugeja, known as il-Porporina, ignited a mixed bag of emotions, as the news hit the airwaves this week. His was decidedly a notorious life, as his nickname, for some time, became a household name, synonymous with crime.

It was also natural that his later interviews on programmes such as Xarabank resurfaced, capturing renewed interest and views, and his powerful messages, especially addressed to the younger generations, resonated anew. My intention, obviously, is not to pass judgement on the man's choices, or the justice system that may or may not have failed him. Yet, Mr Bugeja's passing is an opportunity for what I feel can be a poignant reflection.

As Mr Bugeja reflects in one of his interviews, he grew old in prison. He lost both parents, loved ones, and became great grandfather, while behind bars.

Most significantly, Mr Bugeja urges the younger generations to watch out, and weigh their choices carefully, lest they end up in his situation.

Mr Bugeja's passing made me reflect about the importance of a life well lived, a life that gives one the satisfaction to say, I have lived a good life. And perhaps, our modern lifestyles do tend to propose quick fix solutions for a good life, which may not be the best ideas in the long run.

I am deeply perturbed by a seemingly growing trend of individualism, which leaves little room for anything else. All our choices seem to be governed by one thing and one thing alone - personal gain and advancement.

Unfortunately, modern life has forgotten how important and beautiful, other things are, such as voluntary work and generosity in general. This is evident in the declining rates of young people taking on roles in voluntary organisations, whichever they may be. The younger generation is even finding it hard, reportedly, to pick up a hobby, even one that may result in untold personal satisfaction if given enough time.

From a young age, we are encouraged to invest handsomely in our careers. First through our academic paths, then through hard work, and a great deal of sacrifices. Of course this is great, and the country must continue to invest in well-trained, highly-skilled professionals who can keep the engines of the economy firing on all pistons.

However, we must remain vigilant that our work does not take over the rest of our lives. Balance remains key. Life is made of things we do as a necessity, as well as many other things that are far from necessary, but provide the flavour and richness of life. If we remove all of these and focus exclusively on the things that will make us wealthier, or more popular, or grant us more power, then we are destined to some very dull lives indeed.

Sadly, in such circumstances, less than virtuous habits are not too far off to sneak in, wreaking havoc in their wake. Is the alarming consumption of drugs, at just any gathering, perhaps the result of this? Since we have lost the ability to decompress in a natural way, are we seeking release through dangerous toxins?

With the legalisation of marijuana, our younger generation is decidedly consuming weed just anywhere and everywhere - anyone with a functioning olfactory system may attest to this. Is this healthy? Will the chickens come home to roost on this issue very soon?

Mr Bugeja's of course was a very extreme case - a perfect storm perhaps - but one that can offer some great lessons. I just wish that as politicians and active members of society, we can give our younger generation the opportunities to see for themselves the beauty of a great life lived - one that fills us with joy, for ourselves, and others.

I express my condolences to the family of Mr Bugeja, and his loved ones.

Alexander Mangion is Deputy Mayor of Attard