Here are some things that I can't say to students, but on my worse days, the words hover, unspoken, on my lips.

Are you raising teenagers or attempting to educate them?  I have one in my home, and I need all my wits and energy to keep him on track.  Prayers, the book of Proverbs, and friends of other teens help, also!  Nevertheless, I'm still bewildered at the things young people at school do and say.  Here are some of my basic answers and questions.


     No, I won't lend you money. No, all white people don't have money. Neither do all teachers have money. 

     I care about you, but I'm not believing the story you are telling me.  I'll call your mother and offer condolences about your grandmother. 

     Who stole your innocence and wonder? Where is your natural curiosity? 

      Do you ever read anything beside magazines?

      
       What in the world makes you want to talk to me about sex?  I'm your grandmother's age.   

        Why are you wearing headphones and dancing in my room when headphones are forbidden?

         Why did you arrive to my classroom with a fistful of chips and coca-cola?  And why are you so angry when I ask you to put them away, and get out your pencil?          How can you not care about the heritiage and history of your ethnic group(s) and why don't you see that we must not repeat the mistakes of the past? 

          Do you intend to hold a job after high school?          Do you really think that you can present these excuses in college?          Why can't you see that when your parents and teachers hold up high standards, we are loving you?

       (cont'd)