First, let me tell you it's fine to post this reply to your letter on your site, and I would like to post your letter on mine as well. :)
You have brought up some very interesting points, and valid ones at that.
I agree with you when you say we, as parents, need to be raising our kids. Fortunately, I CAN answer all the questions that you asked regarding my children's favorites, friends, teachers, etc. I don't expect a pat on the back, tho, because as a parent that is what is expected of me at a minimum. Now, let me also tell you that I am now a single parent, trying to get a business off the ground, and trust me, it's hard. However, the kids won't suffer for that, because you HAVE TO make time. They also attend church, where the differences between right and wrong that I am trying to instill in them can be reinforced. I can see, tho, where it would be very easy for parents (single or two parent households) to let things slide, and that is probably the case in a lot of households across the country.
I know that I am far from perfect as a parent, and don't want to throw stones at anyone else. It is dificult for me, tho, to not notice how my neighbors are practically raising the little boy from 2 or 3 streets over. This child comes from a very wealthy family, but apparently the careers creating the weath keep Mom & Dad away from home a lot. I see this as trouble waiting to happen. This kid has entirely too much time on his hands, and as a result wanders the neighborhoods looking for something to do and someone to play with.
Regarding the metal detector issue, I have to give you that one, as well. Initially it was the first thing that came to mind when that shooting occurred in Michigan that February. I know it's not a cure-all, but it was a start, and it made people think, which is what the site was put up for in the first place. :)
Thank you for taking the time to think and to write and share your opinions with me. If more people thought like you do, and spoke up about it, the world would probably be a much better place.
~~Jules
Get your own Free Home Page