Parents

Why do we have children? As mothers continue to join the work force, day care centers and private individuals are caring for our children. Some teenagers have no supervision at all. Like many other parents I forgot the reasons behind having children.

Reality set in when my oldest child started school. My husband and I were faced with the dilemma of getting her to and from school Who was going to do it for us? It was then that I realized that it was our responsibility. We are becoming reliant on others to raise our children. For example, sex education and drug education are topics that should be taught at home, but fewer parents are doing so.

As parents we are to provide what our children need most--love, attention and guidance. Raising children is one of the most difficult and trying jobs. The pay stinks, but the payoff is priceless.

JULIE RIDGE

Orange