Shaken Foundations

I recently read that there is a trend toward teenage abstinence. GOOD. At the same time, one has to wonder why. Perhaps it's because they are more aware of the risks (and nastier ones are arising all the time). Perhaps it's the economy, and the education many of them have concerning the cost of child care. Maybe it's the crowded state of the Earth, and teens are just more environmentally considerate. Or maybe, (to be fair, we can't leave this out) they've seen the toll being a single, uneducated Mother can have, and don't want to continue the cycle. In observing the parenting techniques of many of those who thought having a baby at sixteen would be so sweet, or make them the envy of other girls, or would make a boy stay and love her, it's difficult to overlook the impatience, harshness, and general ignorance that pervades the situation. Often, the Mother is overworked, left on her own, feels she has little or no recourse, and poorly educated. It has long been known that increased education directly corresponds with improved circumstances. It is often almost shocking to hear the accepted "norm" in the more crowded, poor districts, or the extremely rural areas that are overlooked by the politicians and fund providers for their lack of constituents. The first thing the children hear in the morning is a shout, insult, or scathing comment. It's also the last thing they hear at night, and their main emotional sustenance throughout the day. What a day it will be, when all parents can learn to find positive releases for their stress outside of the home, so the children will feel loved and safe inside the home. This includes the middle class and wealthy families. How often do parents take the time to say and- more importantly- show their children they are loved? Is the conversation limited to school grades, sports performance, social standing, and work? Is there even any form of conversation? Often times, parents fall into the trap of thinking they are working extra hard, or- worse- pushing their children extra hard for the benefit of the child. In the long run, it won't matter if they got a "B+" or an "A-" on the quiz. It won't matter if they were five minutes late for practice. What will matter will be whether the parents were physically AND emotionally "there" for the children. What will matter is whether Mother and Father can sit and help a child learn the concept or principle, so the child doesn't fear the quiz. Such things cannot be put off until later, they cannot be pushed off onto the shoulders of others, and they will never be replaced with some thing from the store. For, while money can buy false friends, it can never truly buy the trust and love of a child. And that is one of the most worth while gifts in the world.


"For, while you may be able to reschedule a business transaction, you will never be able to reschedule this moment with your child." -Unknown

United States Politics.

In this country, it has become the political fashion to be corrupt and inconsistent. With all of the bickering, back biting, and basic disharmony that comes with a love of money stronger than the love of service, it is a wonder any thing is ever accomplished. At the same time, one begins to wonder about the home lives of these weak (and therefore power seeking) individuals. What kinds of families instilled the values they hold so dear? Were their parents the morally strong and patient teachers so many of our politicians would have us believe? If so, why don't the children reflect it a little more? I understand there are some civic and political leaders that admit to a rotten childhood, just as there are some that actually are trying to serve in their respective offices honorably. To the former, I say: Thank you for your honesty. To the latter, I say: Thank you for doing what needs to be done.
To every one else in politics, I say: Turn all your assets over to the people you've robbed to get where you are before you start your new career as a factory worker. Please. We really don't want you any more. Sooner or later, the sugared candy foundations of your empire will crack, shatter, and cause your downfall any way; so you may as well save some stress, effort, and dignity now.
This great country was founded upon principles of honesty, justice, and moral strength. The Founding Fathers were the best and brightest the country had to offer. They were appalled at the indignities and abuses laid upon them and their fellow men by a corrupt government. This was the impetus to the success of millions. The inspired documents and government forged by these men were simple and honest enough to last the ages- provided the people that followed were willing to adhere to these in their pristine form. Unfortunately, as elections draw near, it appears the people no longer care for these principles. Either that, or their choices are limited to only the criminals secure enough in their greed to try to con their fellow men out of his time, money, and liberty.

"His honour rooted in dishonour stood, as faith unfaithful kept him falsely true." -Alfred Lord Tennyson