It is hardly debatable that this old world is beset by problems which could…

By Don Klotz

Dear Editor,

It is hardly debatable that this old world is beset by problems which could threaten its very existence and not too far into the future. Just consult the new media objectively. There are habits on the loose that can lead only to disaster. As a long-time teacher-coach, I can’t over emphasize the importance of the establishment of proper habits early, beginning with infants. The Bible suggests, “Parents, teach your children proper habits early and they will not disappoint you later.” Good advice for some thousands of years. I learned early in my first year of teaching-coaching at little Hartwick that if I had a fine young man or woman in class to be sure to meet the parents. I would be in for a treat. Still true in 1999. This puts a heavy burden on parents, especially in this age of so many negative influences. They have my sympathy and my prayers.

I have a smattering of knowledge of the cultures and creeds of the world. None of these in my estimation equal Christianity as a basis for habit formation. There is a role model Jesus Christ who knew no sin, even to his enemies. He is the only great historical figure who lived, died and was historically proven to have been resurrected. His teachings are as applicable today as they were back thousands of years when they were created by God, his Father. His admonition to a young man as a guide for successful living and a future in the hereafter, “Love your Father with all your heart, all your mind and all your strength and love your neighbor as yourself.” That Golden Rule appears almost word for word in all of the world’s great religions. Following are those Ten Commandments with which I can find not one criticism as models for habit formation by the human race. Had those guilty of the massacres hitting the headlines over the past several years been exposed to them adequately, they would never have occurred. What in heaven’s name were they exposed to anyway? The first requirement in solid habit formation is master the basics. What better source for basics is available? They are simple and trustworthy for all mankind.

-Don Klotz