Pubdate: Mon, 14 Mar 2005
Source: North Thompson Star/Journal (CN BC)
Copyright: 2005 The North Thompson Star/Journal
Contact:  http://www.starjournal.net/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1231
Author: Terry Gorley

TEENS HAVE THE ABILITY TO MAKE THEIR OWN RESPONSIBLE CHOICES

To The editor;

In response to Ryan Bach's comments, "Nothing in Barriere for teens"
(Mar. 7, 2005, issue).

I'm sorry Ryan, but having nothing better to do than drink and do
drugs is an excuse for those who don't take responsibility for their
own actions.

I grew up in Barriere and there was no more to do then than there is
now. My parents smoked and drank occasionally, but as a teen I made
life choices for myself. I didn't smoke and drink then, and I don't do
either now.

Until we learn to accept responsibility for our own actions and stop
placing blame on "too little to do", and somebody else "made me do
it", the drug problem in Barriere isn't going to go away.

That said, I understand there is the occasion when somebody
unknowingly takes something harmful that has been slipped to them. I
don't believe in peer pressure. That thinking has been widely used for
a very long time and I believe it has done nothing except allow it to
be used as an excuse for bad personal choices. For those that don't
agree, that's OK, you're entitled to your opinion too.

Here's something to think about:

Special Statements for Teens

* I am special because I am me. I am an individual. There is no other
exactly like me.

* I understand I can change my behavior and how I think. I will
remember peer pressure is crap.

* I have the power to walk away. I understand drinking and drugs are
costly, not only monetarily, but to relationships and to the well
being of my mind and body.

* My body has the ability to heal and rejuvenate itself and
does.

* I am a worthy human being with much to offer the
world.

* I understand freedom is creating my own path - not following in the
footsteps of others.

* Faith will give me the strength and courage to face the challenges
of today and tomorrow.

* Today, I will take a moment to contemplate new beginnings; what it
means to me and what I want for myself in this lifetime.

* I will celebrate me and the wonderful life I have now and the
wonderful life I have to look forward to!

Terry Gorley,

Barriere
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MAP posted-by: Derek