We watched the President's address to school children last night, and I am still trying to figure out what all the commotion was about. We loved what he had to say - - things that all parents should be saying to their children anyway - - and took zero issue with any of it. Do I want my children to understand that education is something they have to work hard for? Do I want them to realize that they can and will make mistakes, but that those mistakes will not define them as people? Do I want them to be respectful of their teachers, peers, parents, and President? Yes, yes, yes, and yes! Did I feel brainwashed after I watched it? Ummm....no.Many claimed that Obama's speech was nothing short of an "indoctrination of our youth". An indoctrined person is not supposed to examine or question the "doctrine" they have learned, and I'm pretty sure that wasn't the president's point. In fact, in his speech, he encourages critical thinking. He was merely speaking to the country's youth, people. Nothing more. If asking my children to take responsibility for themselves, to not spend hours per day sitting in front of a television, to not blame their teachers or their parents when they don't put in the work needed to be successful in school, or to take care of their bodies and themselves so that they are able to pay attention in school is indoctrination, then please, President Obama, indoctrinate my children.
I guess the bottom line for me in all of this is, where it the basic principle of respect here? Whether I agree with the President or not, I will always be respectful of the office of the President, and I most certainly expect the same from my children.
8 comments:
Well said, Heather.
Totally agree. Cannot figure out what the fuss was about. Reagan and George Bush Sr. talked at the schools too so not sure what the big deal is. Glad that any President cares enough to speak to our students- whatever party they represent.
Very, very well said. Some people just like to assume the worst before hearing the details.
Ditto on the "well-said" Heather. Personally I thought it was great that our President cared enough to speak to our children!
I totally agree with you. He certainly has our support as our President. I thought the address was well-done.
Tom and I agree with you as well Heather and cudos to you for expressing it in your blog. Everyone should respect the office of the Presidency - that doesn't mean they have to always agree with him but they do need to respect him. I for one almost always agree with him!
Uncle Ken and I are such total Obama fans that it's almost sickening. It makes me sad that he is working so hard to correct our country's problems, while many Americans are spending their time trying to undermine his efforts. I'm proud as an American that he is our President.
Thank you Heather! You said it superbly.
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