DEAR GRANDPA

The New York Timex/CBS poll of American teenagers was reported by The New York Times April 30, 1998. The article states, in effect, that our kids aren't all that bad. That's really good news. The article further stated: "But 55 percent agreed that there were times when they had something they wanted to talk to their parents about, but did not."

Teenagers are looking for guidance. Something they can follow. Many are looking for something permanent, that they can hang on their wall. That's the reason I have built these rules for young people.

Ten Commandments for Young People

1. Thou shalt pursue and delight in bountiful happiness.

Just because there are rules to follow doesn't mean you cannot enjoy physical activities, music, reading, friends and happenings.

2. Thou shalt behave toward others as you would have them behave toward you.

This is the golden rule, and one of the most important to follow.

3. Thou shalt be honest in all thy dealings.

No lying, cheating or stealing.

4. Thou shalt respect thy parents, mentors and law enforcers.

Teachers, elders, school leaders, police.

5. Thou shalt diligently add to thy intellect.

Study hard, learn all you can, beginning with reading, writing and arithmetic.

6. Thou shalt keep thy physique clean and strong.

Stay physically fit with exercises and aerobics, walking or running.

7. Thou shalt keep thyself pure from drugs, alcohol and tobacco.

Avoid peer pressure to "try it out." These things destroy your mind and body.

8. Thou shalt reserve sex for thy life mate.

Sex with your spouse is beautiful. Other sex is bad news.

9. Thou shalt toil energetically for sustenance.

It's OK to work smart and hard for your pay check.

10. Thou shalt maintain a Godly spirit.

This goes back to God's first commandment to Moses, "You shall have no other gods before me. " When God is with you, you can do marvelous things.

If you have a question for grandpa, send it to: (Dear Grandpa, your paper's name and address.) Or you can E-Mail direct to grandpatw@juno.com