REAL VALUES LAST LONGER THAN A DRUG'S QUICK FIX

I thank my parents for teaching me the following things, which kept me away
from drug and alcohol abuse:

. Common sense. I learned unacceptable behavior would result in swift and
unwanted consequences.

. Respect. I learned to care about the feelings of others, and truly care
about how unacceptable and rude behavior would make them feel.

. Practicality. I learned that placing value in material things would not
replace a firm sense of self-worth.

. Self-reliance. I learned you can only achieve what you limit yourself to.
You are the captain of your ship and the master of your fate.

Thanks, Mom and Dad. I will pass these values on to my children, and teach
them to live by them.

MICHELLE STRAHAN
Long Beach