WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT DRUGS?

Soulsearch

How can you help our community resist dangerous drugs? In order to
address this question, the Leduc Community Drug Action Committee
presented an evening titled "A Family in Recovery." During the
evening, a mom and daughter told their story of recovery from the
daughter's use of illegal drugs. The dialogue that followed
illustrated the obvious concern of families in a culture where drugs
destroy young lives.

The most important thing each of us can do about this problem is
believe that Jesus loves the next generation. As a case in point,
Jesus once was indignant at his disciples when they refused to let
parents bring their children to Him. Responding to their lack of
foresight, He said the Kingdom of Heaven consists of people with
childlike faith. In other words faith that enters God's kingdom now
and forever is humble dependent faith in his grace. Then, Jesus took a
small child in his arms and blessed him (the Greek verb means "fervent
blessing").

Jesus is passionate about kids, therefore, the greatest thing we can
do is pray with passion and faith for our kids, knowing He is eager to
hear us. And, just as important as praying for them, we can go out of
our way to be kind to teenagers. For example, when you feel like a
fossil or you see a young person wearing a style you just don't
understand, look past the exterior, smile, say "Hello," or acknowledge
their value somehow.

Recently, at my mother's funeral, a dear friend shared how mom
accepted him and treated him with respect during a critical time in
his teenage years. Her kindness changed the direction of his life.

Our children need someone other than parents to show them love. Kurt
Cobain of the rock band Nirvana killed himself in 1994. Some time
before his death he lamented, "I'm a product of spoiled America . . .
There are so many worse things than a divorce. I've just been brooding
and bellyaching about something I couldn't have, which is a family, a
solid family unit." Like Cobain, some people, young or old feel
abandoned, alone and alienated.

You make a difference when you reach outside your comfort zone and
care. At the same time, there are other things you can do. While you
give grace, you can thank the law for standing against criminal gangs
who want to use local youth as agents and clients.

Our community has become more drug resistant thanks to the excellent
work of the RCMP, so take a moment to thank a cop for caring.
Furthermore, be informed, the drug action committee has brochures
featuring resources available to those who need help breaking out of
the vicious cycle of drug use. At the same time, recognize the signs
of drug culture, the term "420" is one common example. Those who
profit from the sale of substances that hurt our children's potential
will always exist.

But you push back with more power in prayer, love and community
involvement.