Much of the media emphasis this weekend was on the funeral for Whitney Houston. She was a tremendous beauty and talent who produced huge recording and movie hits. Her death at 48 years of age was unfortunate. A few of the national commentators have made an issue of the nonchalance with which the major networks treated her addictions and problems and it is always described as unfortunate. There is never a condemnation of the drug culture and use of drugs, only a shrug of the shoulders and an, “Oh well!” I believe that our culture should show more outrage. The list of celebrities lost to drugs is formidable: Whitney Houston, Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, Janis Joplin, Michael Jackson and on and on. Perhaps it is time to have society rise up and demand “no more!” Let’s all think about a strategy. What can it hurt? Recently in the General Assembly there was considerable paper and ink expended on a Senate bill dealing with the teaching of creationism in public school science classes. State Senator Dennis Kruse(R-Auburn) authored a bill to allow the teaching of creationism along with evolution in public school science classes. As you might surmise, the bill created some controversy. Dialogue evolved that questions how to teach the topic and who would monitor it to make sure it is done correctly. There are several viewpoints on how to teach creationism. Most come back to the fact that churches are the best prepared to teach their version of how life was created. But others believe that evolution can be taught from the scientific viewpoint. Regardless, a discussion of creation can hardly omit a “Creator.” To admit there is a “Creator” mixes government, education and religion. Oh my, what a philosophical problem we created. However, the issue, for this session, is dead. I had the good fortune to attend a banquet where the keynote speaker was former Congressman Lee Hamilton. His message was very positive. He focused on the attitude of citizens and the government. If the government is positive and encourages its citizens, much can improve. Without encouragement, we are headed for hard times. The message from Congressman Hamilton is so valuable because he uses his considerable experience as a leader to reinforce his theory that, “a positive attitude yields a positive result.” It is hard to argue with that. Recently, I read a George S. Patton quote that I really think is appropriate: “Never tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do and they will surprise you with their ingenuity.” What a great way to push people to excel! More later, Bill Friend -30- |
