Pubdate: Fri, 24 Oct 2003 Source: Sun Herald (MS) Copyright: 2003, The Sun Herald Contact: http://www.sunherald.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/432 Author: MICHELLE STRAHAN REAL VALUES LAST LONGER THAN A DRUG'S QUICK FIX I thank my parents for teaching me the following things, which kept me away from drug and alcohol abuse: . Common sense. I learned unacceptable behavior would result in swift and unwanted consequences. . Respect. I learned to care about the feelings of others, and truly care about how unacceptable and rude behavior would make them feel. . Practicality. I learned that placing value in material things would not replace a firm sense of self-worth. . Self-reliance. I learned you can only achieve what you limit yourself to. You are the captain of your ship and the master of your fate. Thanks, Mom and Dad. I will pass these values on to my children, and teach them to live by them. MICHELLE STRAHAN Long Beach - --- MAP posted-by: Perry Stripling