MILLENNIUM ESSAY CONTEST WINNERS; LOOKING BACK AWARD OF MERIT: TEARS FROM THE PAST

As we move into a new century, let us not forget the tears we shed in the past. Let us not forget how we cried over the school shootings, the murders of other children and adults, the abuse of our elderly and the unconscionable acts toward those different from ourselves. We have seen humanity at its worst. We must remember we cried and remember our tears.

As we move forward into the new millennium, let us build a new and stronger infrastructure for our world, country, community, workplace, churches, neighborhood and families. This framework will then be the basis for all future decisions and actions. It begins as a highly personal process. It is a personal conscience drawing its guidance from a source greater than our individual selves. It will go by many different titles but will be identical in purpose: a guide based on good. It will provide us with a source of guidance, strength and peace towards others. Whatever we may title this source, however we maintain contact with it and how often is up to us. Our world desperately needs the blessings of this great, powerful "spirit." Create a special relationship with the source of all good and share it with others in your life. Then and only then can we begin anew. And may we always -- remember we cried -- remember our tears.