By the time this letter is printed, the children will probably be back in school. However, I would still like to appeal to all the adults who have been enjoying the Park Avenue School grounds all summer.

Please find a more suitable place to do your drugs, drink your beer, and to have dinner and sex. Aside from the fact that my back hurt from cleaning up after you, the children do not need to be exposed to this garbage on their playground.

We ask children to say 'no' to drugs, and at the same time leave evidence showing that this does not apply to adults.

It is time for us as adults and parents to stop blaming everything and everybody for what is wrong with our children. We need to stop with the excuse of not having time because we have to work. What are we working for, after all? A better life for our kids. How do we give them a better life? By concerning ourselves with their education, by teaching them about respect, responsibility, God, and how to lead a meaningful life.

The children that ride the bus to school, get off, and walk right back into the neighborhood--is one of them yours? Do you show interest in their schooling? Are you aware of how and where they are spending their time?

Do you ever listen to your children? That room that you have outfitted with all the comforts of home (stereo, television, computer)--do you ever check to see what else is in there that you know nothing about? Or maybe you are not allowed to enter your child's room, even if you do pay the rent or the mortgage.

We all cry about gun control, drug use, and other similar issues. There is no way to stop the sale of guns and drugs because of the money involved. However, we can pool our resources and come up with ideas and projects that will keep our children so busy that they will not have time for anything that will cause harm to themselves or others.

First, we need to get them and ourselves involved in church or some type of religion. Once we bring Jesus Christ into the picture, things get a bit easier. If you truly want a better life for your children, introduce them to God. Stop trying to buy their love and respect with worldly things. As life is a free gift from God, so are your children. Show your thanks by loving and respecting them, as well as demanding respect from them.

Jeraldine Odoms