Adults, take control

The first paragraph of the Chicago Tribune editorial on vaping, reprinted in the Democrat-Gazette, ends with something to the effect that “who knew” the kids would be taking hits (vaping) from something that looks like a flash drive or lipstick. It should have stopped right there. Instead, the editorial goes off on some predictable “concern” about as yet undiscovered health issues.

Health issues? Who cares? Have teens ever engaged in unhealthy behavior? The possibility that vaping could develop health issues is completely irrelevant.

The elephant in the room is that vaping or any other distraction should not be permitted in a formal classroom setting. Period. In a classroom you get to pay attention. That’s it. That’s all. And nothing else. You don’t get to chew gum, slouch in your seat, talk, whisper, ask to go to the bathroom, pass notes, look around, and nowadays, eat chips or suck on a bottle of water.

“Who knew” implies that vaping is just some sorta trend that kinda came about like teen fashion, hairstyles, dance steps, or speech lingo (daddy-o). But hey, what can ya do? These are different times and “they are a-changin’.” Oh yeah? This is a telling indicator of how much control we adults have allowed to give up by “negotiating” with the urchins on their wants and needs. Who gives a “you know what” about their wants and needs? We are supposed to be forming their wants and needs, not consulting them. The paper needs to get with the “old school” ideas, most of which worked well and would work again today if those in charge (that would be we adults) have the nerve to put them in place.

JAMES HATCH Little Rock