Dear President,

HOPING this finds you well and that you are as enthusiastic as ever in the ongoing struggle to help our young people to cope with life today. (Yes, as usual, I have a favour to ask.)

Young people are like stars in the firmament, so numerous, so anxious to take the right road, so longing to communicate.

I ask you to open up a tiny door which might help someone to meet their problems in a quiet and confidential way. My proposal is that you inaugurate a Family Letter Writing Day. For example, dad writes to son, mom to daughter, even granddad, uncles, baby to dolly, etc. How about December 1? Remember, many a tragedy can be avoided if there is a little prior knowledge. And a Family Letter Writing Day might be a help. Thanks and best wishes. Ben Ryan Duleek, Co Meath