Pubdate: Wed, 19 Nov 2003
Source: Sun Herald (MS)
Copyright: 2003, The Sun Herald
Contact:  http://www.sunherald.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/432
Author: Kim Miller 

NOT ALL WHO USE PACIFIERS ARE INNOCENT AS BABIES

I watched "The District" this past week (Nov. 15 episode, "Acceptable
Losses"), and I was in total shock when they showed the contents of that
girl's purse, which included a glowing pacifier, a nasal inhaler, bottled
water and a box of candy. How harmful could these things be?

I learned that the pacifier is for when they are "rolling," I believe is
what they said. (Editor's note: "Rolling" is using the drug ecstasy; it
causes users to grind their teeth.) I don't do or use drugs or have
children, so I don't know the terms for all of this. The inhaler helps out
when they are getting high; I guess it helps them get higher. The bottled
water is for the thirst that is caused from the use of meth. The candy -
well, that was the drugs in a candy container. It does look like candy.

So, you ask yourself, why am I writing this? I was at the craft show this
past weekend and saw several teens with those glowing pacifiers hanging from
their necks. I am not saying that all teens with them are using. The teens
these days are smarter than we give them credit for.

With all the overdoses we have had in the past few months, however, I really
wish that everyone on the Coast could have seen this episode. Who would have
thought that those contents in her purse were telltale signs that she was
using drugs? I guess she didn't think her little brother would get in her
purse and eat candy. I mean what kid likes candy?

Parents, stop and get involved with your teens. If they have one of those
"kewl" glowing pacifiers, maybe you should stop and check out what else they
have. Let's help put a stop to the drugs in South Mississippi.

KIM MILLER, Gulfport
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MAP posted-by: Josh