DRUGS AND KIDS

The latest Plano teenager to die as a result of a heroin overdose is
sending a clear message not only to parents, but to teachers and the
community at large. Passing out pamphlets and other printed materials
will just be recycled by kids. Let's face it. When you were a teenager,
did you give much thought to your own mortality? They really don't think
it can happen to them.

Kids need to know that there are consequences of their actions that may
sometimes result in a finite end to their lives. Even a friend dying is
not enough. They will just chalk it up to the unfortunate victim taking
too large a hit.

Teachers and parents must talk to teens in an interactive way, no
preaching, but conversing with them in a respectful manner; this is
happening to "good kids." Let's stop this trash from killing our young
people.

Let's wake up and realize the kids who are dying from drug overdoses
have not been educated to the dangers to the extent that it is
believable to them. We must convince them.

BARBARA VAUGHAN,

Garland