An Open Letter to Parents

Dear Parents,

     The one thing I can say is to always be there for your children. I don't intend for that to be taken as a reason to constantly hover over your children and watch their every move. I mean to always provide guidance and support for your children whenever they need it. They need to know that you will be there for them and help them when they it is needed.
     Another thing I can say is to let your kids grow up. That may seem in contrast to what I just previously said, but they have to grow up and learn things for themselves. However, you are still their parents. Let them explore and grow, but be there to provide guidance. Let your kids know that they can always come to you. Again, just always be there for them. If something is clearly wrong, do not just ignore it. But don't hound them about it either. Just ask your child if something is wrong. He or she will tell you if something is seriously wrong when they are ready to.
     One last thing I have noticed with some other parents. I've realized that the strictest parents have the kids who sneak around the most. Please, please don't be too strict with your children. That is why they feel the need to sneak around because they cannot talk to you about anything without the fear of getting into trouble. I think being open with your children is much better than being very strict with them. The kids won't feel the need to hide everything regardless if it is bad or not.

I'm just saying that parents should be there for their children. The kids will come to eventually appreciate it.

Civics

Civic responsibilities versus civic duties?

     Civic responsibilities are the things we should do but do not have to do. Civic duties are the things we are really expected to do, like voting. I think both civic responsibilities and civic duties are important, but what actions qualify to be a civic responsibility or a civic duty is up to the individual.

I think a civic responsibility that everyone should do is to have some general manners. There is nothing wrong with a little courtesy. Actions like holding the door for the person behind you or giving up your seat on the CTA should be normal for everyone. Those actions are appreciated even if it does not seem like it. Another thing I think all people should do is have some general respect for other human beings. I cannot stand when people go out of their way to be mean to or to bully another person. That should not even be necessary. You would think these things would be obvious, but they need to be stressed more so more people do it.

When it comes to civic duties, the first thing that comes to mind is voting. Every citizen over the age of eighteen has the right to vote. When a person decides not to vote, then a general feeling of surprise by others usually happens. Some people get angry because they think that Americans should vote no matter what. However, I can understand why a person would not vote. If a person is choosing not to vote because he or she is not informed about any of the issue or the candidates, then I respect that person. I hear some people say they don't vote because neither candidate will help them. I see their reasoning, but no change is going to happen if people don't vote. It is a touchy subject, but I do respect those who choose not to vote because they don't feel they are informed enough.

Civics is something that is subjective to each individual, society, and culture. Each person will think something different of it. That is why people's actions are different, and it's also the reason why people react differently to the same action.