Wednesday, September 2, 1998

Clinton fails test

Our Sunday school lesson of July 19 listed the seven A's of confession as follows:

-- Address everyone involved (all those affected).

-- Avoid if, but and maybe (don't try to excuse your wrongs).

-- Admit specifically (both attitudes and actions).

-- Apologize (express sorrow for hurting someone).

-- Accept the consequences (such as making restitution).

-- Alter your behavior (change your attitudes/actions).

-- Ask forgiveness.

Bill Clinton failed in each category.

Those who continually bash Ken Starr should remember he was appointed to his task by the attorney general, who was appointed by Clinton. Starr's original assignment was the Whitewater incident, in which he has numerous convictions.

He was then appointed by the same attorney general to investigate the Lewinsky allegations.

This investigation could have been concluded months, even years, ago had not Clinton and his White House staff stalled, stonewalled and delayed at every turn, refusing to turn over subpoenaed documents until years later.

The cost of this investigation can be laid at the feet of Clinton, his attorneys and his staff.

I think Ken Starr has done a magnificent job under very difficult circumstances.

Now those brave souls who have sent anonymous hate mail to me may do so again.

AUBREY COLE

Abilene

Campus equity

I am distraught when I hear derogatory comments regarding some of our AISD campuses, especially our northside schools.

When I tell them I live on the north side and my children go to northside schools, the people who say those things fall all over themselves trying to apologize.

Perhaps the following should be printed in our Parent/Student Code of Conduct as the "10 Commandments for Parents and Students":

1. Thou shalt have respect for all AISD campuses.

2. Thou shalt not judge a campus by racial balance only.

3. Thou shalt not take the name of thy superintendent in vain.

4. Remember the first and last day of school and keep it holy.

5. Honor thy teachers and administrators and pray for them daily.

6. Thou shalt not kill the integrity of any AISD campus.

7. Thou shalt not condemn other campuses.

8. Thou shalt not smite another campus with idle gossip.

9. Thou shalt not bear false witness against the PTA.

10. Thou shalt not judge a campus by TAAS scores alone.

Every AISD campus has its share of problems. Someone who tries to tell you a certain school is perfect is not speaking the truth. As much as we would like to raise our children in a perfect environment, the reality is it's not possible.

However, if we teach our children virtues along with social skills and coping skills, they will be prepared to face an imperfect world upon graduation.

Let's replace our slandering with words of encouragement to get involved.

VICKI HOUSE

Abilene