I'm on my soapbox today.....

[Craig]

I hate to be on my soapbox today, but after reading about all the discipline problems with the Ga Bulldogs – (and they are not alone in the college world when it comes to behavior issues) I got to thinking.

I spent 20 years in the Navy. For at least 14 of those years, I was in some type of leadership position. The last 10 years I was blessed to have responsibility in one way or another for 50 – 80 Sailors at a time. So out of those 50 – 80 Sailors over the course of those 10 years I had zero Sailors convicted of felonies, zero Sailors arrested for possession of any drug, and zero Sailors arrested for domestic violence.

It doesn’t speak to my leadership – it speaks to the character of the young men and women who serve our country. Most of these young men and women are the same age as the college players I am watching today.

To your sailor - I say – I am glad you joined my old team. Thank you for the class, dignity, and character in which you serve our nation.

[ebigirl]

You both hit the nail on the head as far as I'm concerned. Parent's who just "give" their child(ren) whatever they want are just asking for huge issues and problems down the road. Many do this out of guilt, other do it to keep the peace.

judy r; We used the three things we are "legally required to provide" with our son many times. He is now 21, married and very responsible. I now feel that I can be a "friend" to my son...he's a grown adult and I love him to pieces! I think I did a pretty good job with him, if I dare say so myself. :-)

[sailorwifenmom]

I'm a Navy vet and a Navy wife. We also have one child in college and one in the Navy. While both of our kids are responsible and respectful, I think there's a reason that people say "college kids" but then talk about "our men and women in uniform" (most of those men and women being the same age as those "kids").

I think accountability is key. In the home growing up (my kids frequently heard me tell them that I loved them too much to care if they liked me...) and also in their newly adult lives (and, frankly, onward until we die).

The Navy either builds on the discipline and accountability learner in the home, or, if it wasn't learned, instilled it pretty quick. Too many other people in society make excuses for bad behavior, which leads to them being out of control later.