Columnists

This I can say about a terribly difficult situation at Paradise Elementary School: There are very good people who run the YMCA programs who are conscientous and horrified that an arrest for sexual abuse of a child has taken place at a YMCA program. I know this because I’m on the YMCA volunteer board. My fellow board members and the staff members I have met are very dedicated people who work hard and sincerely for the betterment of the community and for the positive development of so many children. They will not duck or try to spin the situation, it will be met head on with great sadness and dissected thoroughly to see what changes can be made. One of the greatest evils is the sexual abuse of children for its horrid nature – in this case an attack on a defenseless 6-year-old girl – and the fact that it leaves scars that last a lifetime. It’s unconscienable, but it is also a testament to this girl’s courage and heart that she spoke up. It’s truly heroic. My heart goes out to the families involved and all those who have to deal with such a terrible mess.

There aren’t too many things that can make you feel worse than when you do something really, really stupid. Lately, I think I have captured first prize in the stupid competition. I can only hope that things come in groups of three and that I don’t have to worry for a while.