The President’s Address to our Children

*update –Well that certainly got a little crazy yesterday, didn’t it?  I had no idea I was opening such a large can of worms, but I am thankful to all of you who were supportive in your comments and who provided encouragement throughout the day.  I’d also like to thank the last commenter, Katie, who gave a great example of how to respectfully disagree with someone.  Well done! 

Katie, I understand your point and would agree with you that there are probably a lot of children who don’t have the benefit of supportive and involved parents.  But that does not mean, in my opinion, that the address should be broadcast directly into the classrooms.  There are still ways that you could help ensure that all students have the opportunity to see the broadcast, without subjecting everyone to it.  For example, schools could open up their buildings in the evenings and offer to show the broadcast to families together. 

The fact of the matter is that parents have the right to know what’s going on and what’s being said in their children’s classrooms.  No elected official should be allowed to take that right from us.

And as an update, I have heard from Sloan’s school.  The broadcast will be made available to grades 3-5 only, so Lee and I feel comfortable sending Sloan to school on Tuesday.  We will likely watch the broadcast on our own and we will decide whether or not we think Sloan needs to see it.

Thanks all for the colorful conversation yesterday! Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend. 

I posted a status update on Facebook that got people talking yesterday and I wanted to expound on it more here.  It has to do with my reluctance and discomfort with President Obama’s September 8 address to students.  The President of the United States is going to be broadcast directly to students in the classrooms. 

I had more than one person respond or email me asking me why in the world I would be uncomfortable with the President’s address to students.  And my response is, why shouldn’t I be?  Even if the President speaking to my child was a man I had personally voted for, I would still be vigilant about wanting to know what would be said to my child before, during and after such a broadcast.

My child is six years old.  It is my job to be his advocate.  It’s my duty to ensure that what he’s being fed at school matches with the morals, values and worldview that we share as a family.  And, if what he hears doesn’t match with our viewpoint, then it’s my job to help him process the new information he’s received and filter it through the lens of his developing worldview.

And I don’t agree with the idea that by doing this we are brainwashing our child.  We are protecting our child.  We do not expect or hope that Sloan will be so sheltered that as he grows he’s unable to respect, hear or appreciate different viewpoints and opinions.  On the contrary, we hope that by helping him establish and solidify his own worldview, he’ll better be able to understand and respect the differing views of others.

Obviously, if you’ve read my blog for any amount of time, you know that we are conservative.  Some would say extremely so.  These conservative views are built upon our worldview, which has been established upon Biblical principles, which we believe wholeheartedly and passionately. 

That being said, I have no problem at all with my child being encouraged to enjoy learning and education.  I don’t see anything wrong with him setting goals and having dreams about his future.  I want him to be excited about learning and education.  I DO have a problem, however, with the President of the United States being live-streamed into my child’s classroom without me knowing what exactly he’s going to say, or how any discussion before or after will take place.

I have already called Sloan’s school and spoken with the Prinicpal’s assistant about my concerns and was informed that at this point, they aren’t sure if they are required to show the address by the school board, but if they are, parents likely won’t be asked to join.  But, we have the option of having Sloan leave the classroom if we want.

I’m not sure it will be necessary for Sloan to leave the classroom, but Lee and I will be spending some time researching this over the weekend and praying about what we should do.  I was told that teachers would be encouraged not to discuss the address – at least at the kindergarten level, but how  would I know? 

I take issue with this for several reason, the biggest being that I don’t think it’s the President’s business to show up directly in the classroom.  If he wants to speak directly to students, great.  I think he should do it.  But I think it should be done in the evening, on a national broadcast, when parents and children can sit down together and watch.  Because, in my opinion, education should start in the home.

Now, the fact of the matter is, I don’t agree with President Obama on a lot of levels and on many issues.  I feel like he’s trying to take our country down a path that’s unhealthy and over-governed.  I don’t want my President involved in every aspect of my life and I certainly don’t want him coming into the classroom, talking to my child when I’m not there.  While I want my children to learn about civics and about how democracy works, political science, I don’t want them being schooled in politics at school. 

Finally, I’ve read the press release to teachers, encouraging them to talk with their students. I certainly don’t have a problem with teachers helping children focus on their dreams and goals in education, but I don’t think our children need to be told the story of Obama’s upbringing, his background and so on and so forth. While Obama deserves our respect as our elected leader, he does not need to be placed on so high of a pedestal that our children think of him as a super hero. He deserves our respect, certainly, but not our worship.  Is his story inspirational?  Sure.  But we need to be careful on how much we elevate a fallible man. 

So we’ll see what we decide about Tuesday.  I imagine we’ll send Sloan to school and allow him to see the broadcast.  I am trusting that the teachers at the kindergarten level won’t being facilitating any kind of political discussion.  And I will watch the broadcast at home so that later, in the safety of our home, Lee and I can openly discuss with Sloan his dreams, goals and passions for his education.

I realize that there are many who don’t agree with my concern on this matter and I’m okay with that.  I’m glad we can have differing opinions and I don’t stand in judgement on those who choose to think differently.  But I do take my job as Sloan’s mother seriously, and I have to do what I feel is best for MY child.  And each of you has to do what you feel is best for your children.  We all share that responsilibity and acountability.  And that’s something I know we can agree on.

Comments

  1. Wow, someone got up on the wrong side of the bed this morning. And I’m not talking about you, Kelli.

  2. John. John. John. Allow me to point out one small contradiction of your ranting comment. “I AM a patriotic RIGHTWING AMERICAN MYSELF…” and then down below: …but because IDIOTS LIKE YOU LOST.” I thought you were rightwing? Wouldn’t that make you an idiot too?

    K. Just checking.

    This whole thing is a tricky one. I’m personally glad that I don’t have a child of school age yet cause I’m not sure what we would do. Kelli, I really loved this post. It was well-stated and your point about doing what is best for your child resonated with me. Particularly because we do things with our kids’ health that puts us in the minority. Isn’t that what we all want? The right to raise our children in congruence with our worldview. I’d take a bet that the left wants that as well.

  3. Okay – I understand this is a touchy subject and if you don’t agree, I really do welcome your comments…as long as they are civilized. John, I deleted your comment not because I’m some kind of loon who isn’t willing to have discourse, but because I don’t apreciate being attacked for my own personal viewpoints on my own personal blog.

    I think I was pretty clear about how I feel in my post and I also made it clear that I understand and appreciate different points of view. But I will not tolerate being attacked. So, please, if you’re not going to play nice, then don’t comment. Thank you.

  4. It’s clear that John didn’t actually read what you had to say, Kelli. Way to make an argument, John…filled with hate and name-calling.

    Anyway, you know how I feel, Kelli. I just want to know what is going to happen that day re: discussion, etc. I don’t so much mind them talking about who Obama is and his life story, as he’s our president, but I want to be able to help Luke filter what he hears against what we believe, which is difficult for a 6 y.o. What kind of sticks with me is that I don’t like the writing prompts, where children are supposed to think about how they can help the president…hmmm. Last time I checked he was there to serve the people, not the other way around. If they changed it to how people can help make our country a better place I’d be comfortable with it.

  5. Very well put, Nicole. Excellent point. And Rachel, you’re right. This is not an issue about right or wrong. It’s about what we feel is best for our children. That’s the issue at stake.

  6. Nicely put, Kelli!

  7. yea figured you would delete it ha ha…

    well number one people like you HIGHJACKED the term rightway/republican and turned it into some xtian filled zombie like cult that does not think for itself and its real values. At least the crazy left loons do disagree from time to time like normal people do.

    I was not an “idiot” that I meantioned who lost. Mccain was a fantastic option for president…to bad the people you rep just voted for SP and by fault had to go alont w/ Mccain.

    A real republican wants a small leave me alone stay out of my home govt….but why do so many people you rep choose to get into our home and tell others what marraige is. what health choices that can make…

    If you choose to just high five each other with how right you are…the people for small govt will keep on losing..because your numbers are smaller…dont believe me..look at 2006…then they said o thats a fluke blah blah blah…then 08…got your ace handed to you…the sara palin people are just about done…

    if we dont put up REAL representation soon…and stop having fools like you who are “scared” what are PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES will say….then its a long road ahead…and your right we prob wont get back on track…

  8. I LOVE HOW THE FOX people have changed their story…when Bush was in charge…ALL WE HEARD IS HOW THESE LEFT AMERICAN hating people cant support are president..

    now its…AHH get to work and serve us? wow…nice values…

    you seriously wouldnt want your kid to hear the presidents story???

    FIRST OF ALL any kid about under 12 doesnt have political views…but they do get a kid without having many connections making it to lead the USA.

  9. TO really think O NO my child is going to hear views that differ then OURS and O MY GOD he may start to think that way…EARTH TO NUTSO people dont spend their entire lives thinking about politics…has FOX news has you believe…

    you cant cheer your guy on and preach about how we love america and you shouldnt differ and support are pres…and then FLIP YOUR TUNE after 1 small election…

    you really need to consider home schooling…

  10. My mom who is a teacher of first grader…had a kid in her class who had parents that were loons like you. Which she isnt into politics whatsoever…

    BUT the problem lies after we freely elected by WIDE majority President OBAMA and the next week the lil girl believes Mccain won because her idiot parents would not let her understand that OBAMA won…now THATS confusing a kid…

    the fact that your kid is picking up on the fact your scared they learn and listen from the president is weird beyond comprehention…

    your paranoia frightens most…

  11. Kelli has never struck me as paranoid. She is thoughtful. She is doing her best to raise a thoughtful child instead of a lemming.

    I’m still not hearing John discuss the topic. I’d be happy to read all of his opposing viewpoints if he’d address the topic instead of just hitting his Rant Button.

    Kelli is not the topic. The president’s address directly into the classrooms next week is the topic. Just thought I’d clarify that in case anyone is confused.

  12. well here feel free to discuss the following points..

    1. It is quite paranoid to feel that the president who went through more scrunity then ANY other president will say something that would not be beneficial to your child…do you really think he is going to say..”reading is important, working hard, but btw you should love when your taxes raise but gotta run kids I am off to my gay witches for abortion lobbist meeting?”…

    2. You seriously wouldnt want your child to learn the story of our PRESIDENT! He came from little means, worked hard, no hookups and become OUR president.

    3. You are saying its good to have your child not listen to information from are elected leader? unless what you “screen” it first? thats PARANOID ….

    This is stricly about you not wanting them to hear from our president who you can not argue the fact is AN an impacting individual reguardless if you differ with him on policitcal views…he is a Great person, father, and husband to his wife. He is just who your kids should be hearing from…

    Lastly if you feel you need to prevent your kids from hearing things you disagree with…they have a long 12 more years ahead….your teachers will state things you disagree with…LIKE SEX!! AND DEVILOUTION!! O NO….must filter must filter…if you want your kid to never hear that stuff…HOMESCHOOL….and I have no problem with those that homeschool…BUT IN A PUBLIC SCHOOL!!! dont whine about things like SEXED which thank god they teach…and other things kids can learn…but its wild that you have “concerns” over what are president will say…

  13. John, it’s like this. You’re a smart, obviously tough, progressive type of guy. There’s evidence of that all over your amazing posts attacking a nice person on her own blog. Thing is, nobody cares to hear you calling people loons and displaying your rage via caps lock. That is the mark of someone that’s quite uncomfortable with their arguments.

    There are some of us that can objectively take a look at the man’s viewpoints and policies and understandably be concerned. You might want to do likewise.

  14. John. It must be crazy there in LA today, huh.

  15. Kelli,
    I completely agree with your concerns. I know I have a long was before Kaylee is in school, but one thing I have already decided is that I am not going to just be an “on the sideline” mom. I don’t feel comfortable enough to homeschool and like that my children will get more of a well rounded education in school, but we still have to protect them and make sure they understand what they are being taught also.

    The one thing that has struck me as odd with all this, is why are they showing this to 6 year olds anyways? I can see 6th graders, but 6 year olds are not going to understand much of what he is saying, let along have the attention span to watch it. I think I would want to be there also afterwards to see what the teacher would say. I kind of feel like it can go along the lines of religion in school. If a teachers was to push their beliefs on my child I would want to know exactly what is being said to make sure it is the same as our family believes.

    I completely agree with you for wanting to know what is going on in your childs life and I am sorry that some creep is attacking you on your blog. I just wish everyone could be civilized and also have as much heart as you have for your children and what is going on in their lives.

  16. Wow DL did you get a “A” in phyce 101 at liberty….So nice of you to assume progressive people only live in LA…Obama didnt wint because of CAL he won because of the midwest states that put him there.

    but nice of you to not touch one single point made….but why not have the 6 yr old see who are president is…and that he should have an impact on our lives has americans…

    some creep…now hows the name callers…just completly suggested it was a bit paranoid to be afraid of are elected leader…

    and blogs are PUBLIC forums…if you wanted something private to just say how right you are…then start something on a more private place…this is the internet…and when you stuble across your blog while looking for milf porn…you have some fun….that was a copmlete joke that was meant to get you worked up has much as i know it just did….

    so have a nice ride for the next 3 years…its going to be a wild ride…and guess WHAT FOUR MORE YEARS SUCKERS!!!…were going to learn about evolution…same sex married couples….and the new marxist communsity of america….

    YOU PARANOID FREAKS!…have fun at soccer practice…watch out for scary evil liberals….they may indoctorinate your kids….keep away and advise them how the scary man is lying to them and loves islam…and born in kenya…

    yea we much rather kids learn everything they know from soccer mom and hockey moms

  17. please be nice and satisfy my Hollywood living…leftwing obama liberal loving self…and answer this..

    You guys on here LOVE FOX and MORONS…I mean Fox and Friends in the morning dont you….please admit that and you will make me a happy person…

  18. Oooo…this is fun and a challenge!

    So not from LA…. hmmm…. i’m looking into my crystal ball…. how about the corner of Antioch and W63rd in Shawnee Mission, KS? Again… toooootally guessing here.

    Though i don’t have a psych degree.

    Can I guess your occupation and phone number too? PLEEEEASE

  19. John – My goodness you are getting upset. I’ve been away from the computer for three hours and you’ve left 7 irrational, nonsensical arguments. Who are you arguing with? I don’t even understand what you’re saying half the time, unfortunately, what with all the name calling.

    Now, I’ve debated deleting all of your comments, but I’m not sure that will be necessary. You seem to be digging a nice little hole for yourself here.

    And, just to be clear – I’m not some FOX news groupie. In fact, I rarely watch the news at all. You don’t know anything about me, John, so please don’t make assumptions about what I watch, who I am or even what I believe. You’re only proving my point – you’ve got your own worldview and everything I’ve said has been processed through your worldview. Clearly our worldviews are different and that’s okay. What’s not okay is attacking me and my family when you don’t know what you’re talking about.

    And, FYI – I’ve considered homeschooling and private school both. Again, in doing what we felt was right for our child and our family, we chose public school. Our decision, our choice, and it’s none of your business.

    If you are offended by what you read here on my blog, then I would kindly ask you to not come by anymore. You are not obligated to read what I write. And I’m not obligated to keep your ridiculous comments either, so if they continue to be so rude, hateful and downright ridiculous, I will continue to delete them.

    John, I don’t know who you are or what has happened in your life to make you so defensive and hateful, but I would greatly appreciate it if you would keep your opinions to yourself from here on out.

    Seriously.

    And let me tell you one more thing, attack me all you want – call me names, whatever, I can handle it. But if you say one more thing about my child, or make any remark regarding what type of kid you think he is, it’s over. You’re done. Understand? Don’t you DARE come after my kid.

  20. John –

    Blogs are moderated, therefore private. Please don’t confuse your ability to post with people caring what you post or taking it seriously. I take it the internet is the only place where people listen to you, but only because they have no choice.

    Clearly you landed here by accident, and I believe you when you say you ended up here searching for “something else.”

  21. I stopped reading all of John’s nonsensical posts and skipped to people who are really interested in having a conversation. Way to keep your cool, Kelli.

    On another note, this story is finally getting some mainstream coverage: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32673334/ns/politics-white_house/

    And I got good news from the principal at Luke’s school this morning: they will not be showing the speech. He and I had a nice discussion about where/when this type of address is appropriate. Maybe your district will follow in some neighboring schools’ footsteps…

  22. John can’t spell, doesn’t know the difference between “our” and “are” and his writing is nonsense. But he is passionate. (My Grandma says you should try to find one nice thing to say about someone.)

  23. I read the article Nicole. It sure has a lot of people in an uproar all across the country. Many believing the same thing you do Kelli. I wonder if a lot of parents will keep their kids out of school or if schools will not show it. I agree that it could have been something he could show later in the day when parents and kids could watch it together. IF it was just a speech telling about Obama and his upbringing that may be fine, but it does sounds more than that. And it sounds like because of all of this uproar that they have even changed their agenda with it. I had not heard about the letters he wanted the kids to write so they could help him out? That is ridiculous. Looks like that changed that too.

  24. John, I think you are exposing your immaturity in the way you are trying to stir the pot. You obviously have your views…WE ALL KNOW THAT! (Sense the cap-lock sarcasm here.)

    Kelli, I applaud you being a mom that advocates for her kids. If more people would do that for their kids, maybe truth would not be diluted to the point of being unrecognizable to most of our society. When everything is relative, then it’s hard to care about anything with passion. When people lose their passion, they live aimlessly, not wanting to work hard, looking for the next hand-out, afraid to completely start over if need be, and allowing their values to be defined by loud, minority groups or misguided celebrities. And maybe, John, we wouldn’t be in a nation of people who would overwhelmingly vote for someone who instates MORE government into our lives. It’s the domino effect. People care more and more about themselves, at the expense of others (including their family). Pretty soon family, parenting, values go out the window and suddenly people have no one to care for them, hence needing “government” to do it for them. I’m sorry, but America was not founded on those principles.

    Since you mentioned it, let’s take homosexual marriage as a point. I believe strongly in the Biblical principles of marriage and family which is sorely being lost today. So if Kelli is concerned that over PUBLIC airways, her child would be forced to hear about same-sex marriage–to think it’s ok–then she has a right to be concerned.

    I don’t watch Fox & Friends, so sorry I couldn’t make you happy. I live my life by the Bible, which if you read, you would see that our country was founded mainly upon. When a people move so far away from their foundation, things get off-course. And that is what our country is right now…off course. I wouldn’t want my kids at a very young age being polluted by liberal, relative ideas. A dirty well will only produce dirty water. Nobody wants to look back at why the well is dirty, they are just hoping that the dirty water will suddenly become clean. Not going happen.

    I hear many leftist people these days saying, if you don’t like the New America then leave. Is that really what it has come to? Just because Washington has become liberal and leftist, does not mean they are truly representing the majority of Americans. True representation and hearing the voice of the people is a lost art now. The fact is, the majority of Americans still believe in heterosexual marriage. So why does my kid have to learn about the opposite at age 6 in school. Doesn’t sound like the voice of the people cutting through to me. Politicians are trying to push through their own agenda. The agendas have taken God completely out of our corporate life, and then everyone wonders why things are falling apart, why divorce isn’t even a second thought any more, why teenages are having babies that the rest of America has to pay for and raise. why children are failing in school without a care to their parents, why fathers beat and molest kids, why infidelity is laughed at, why women are sex objects (and desire to be), why suicide is so rampant, why people are controlled by addictions, etc, etc. The list goes on. And I won’t leave out ministers who “fall” either…they are away from God to be able to do such things.

    My question is, if someone is drowning in the above-mentioned issues, dealing with several at any given moment, how can they truly be a life-giving, thriving, contributing member of society? I argue they can’t, thus the state of our country now, and our arrival at letting washington “fix” our problems.

    I hear Kelli saying that she wants to be responsible to bring up responsible, moral children who in turn will be responsible, moral adults. This means knowing what is being taught to our kids and how to filter that in light of their beliefs. How many parents are truly living that way today? Too many parents are making the mistake of wanting someone else to teach and shape their kids. The president should not be allowed to use his political office to “shape” our children. Inspiring story? Yes. Good role model? Not in my book!

    Respectfully…

  25. Hey, John, time to put on your big-boy pants and quit crying. If you don’t like the blog, don’t read it. For those of us who have watched the spread of socialism in Cuba, Bolivia, and Venezuela, Obama seems to be following the same path of leaders that led these countries to ruin. If we choose to stand up for our children and ourselves, that is our freedom in action. You can take pot shots calling us morons and idiots if you want, but stupid is as stupid does.

  26. Hey I would like to apolgize…i wa just trying to start up a discussion…

    I thought this was a blog for that ducssion…

    i really wasnt wanting to come off has mean

  27. First, thank you for caring enough to even be concerned with such a thing. Second, thank you for stating the point that parents (minus a few) ultimately want what is best for their child and therefore act accordingly. I think people miss that sometimes and therefore respond to others’ actions/comments unjustly. And third…

    Can I just encourage you that, as you said in previous posts, your most important mission field is at home. Daily. For 6 years you have taught him truth. For many more, you will continue to do so. Though attempts will be made to cloud it, truth will always remain true. Rest in that. And rest in the impact that ministry has made already.

    I truly mean not to be just some peppy polly that isn’t recognizing the destructive path of this country, and of the serious nature of the concern behind the principles of this speech. I do. And I am concerned. But there is a greater hope. God Is Faithful. Use this situation to teach about how the world often views things differently, but it doesn’t mean it is true. The world offers that, but this is greater. The world will tell you that, but this is God’s word.

    You never know, God may be planning to use this viewing in classrooms around the country for children of all ages to offer words of truth to their peers and teachers…pray that is the case.

    Well, I stumbled onto this blog long ago, and I’ve never commented. What a time to start, huh? I just really felt like doing so today though more than any other.

  28. I was seriousoly wanting to rile up the feathers for real dicussion..sometimes it comes off moronish…ha ha…

    but really wouldnt you agree we do need change from the way obama is taking the country?…I seriously agree with you…but I do think we should look at winning and not hiding…

    Your blog needs to keep up…and your a good writer..who brings up good family values like the rest of us…

  29. I also think your blog can be super helpful….more people need to read it…and I mean that for real…I stumbled on it because i heard it no fox and friends this morning about obama talking and was curious what people were saying…

    but more people in the community like you need to keep stepping up to tell what they think…I AM SO happy to hear those are really your views….because I do think for 8 years the other side did get talking points from the news only not personal thoughts…so way to be differnt…we do have hope for real change…

  30. Wow, this got heated today!
    Kelli- when you first posted a status about this yesterday, I had no idea what you were talking about, as I do not watch news or have kids in school to know about the President broadcasting into the classroom next week. So my initial thought when I read your status yesterday was, good for her wanting to know more about what is being taught to her child. I thought the same today after reading the blog, and before all the comments were left.
    After reading all the comments, it shouldn’t matter if it a republican, democrat, libral, conservative, whatever politician, we should know as parents what is being taught to our children, politically and religiously. It doesn’t matter if it is a politian we agree with or even voted for speaking to our kids, it’s still our right to filter and help our children understand. We are called to raise our children with strong morals and values instilled in them, so when they grown older, they have a strong enough conviction to them to make the right choices. I would want to be there, and if schools are not allowing parents to be there, then my child wouldn’t be in school that day. We would watch it at home together and discuss it together. I applaud parents that are willing to stand up and speak out for their children. Too many parents just don’t care, and we need more parents that are concerned with what their children are learning in schools.
    Good post today Kelli!

  31. awesome, kelli. made me sick to my stomach to think of what we would do if we were in that situation yet. the scary thing is that children are taught that adults and persons in positions of honor should be listened to, and to that end, it makes what most adults say to them be the truth, and be right. how are they supposed to be able to NOT believe everything he tells them. kind of like a hypnotist to their little brains. ugh. thanks for the thoughts.

  32. Kelli,
    You concern is certainly understandable, and I think I would be worried too if I had a child in their very first year of school already faced with something potentially contrary to their beliefs. I’m anxious to hear what you decide to do.
    At some point in his ranting, John called the pres. a “Great” man with a capital G. I think that emphasizes your point that some people choose to put him on a pedistal that we are not comfortable with. Even the best pres. we could ever hope for would not deserve a capital G. There’s only One that we serve that deserves that.

  33. My kid is not in school yet..so i guess my viewpoint will probably change once they reach the public schools….

    does anybody homeschool? how is that?

    but let me know because I am learning…Does it make me a bad parent to not be concerened about that…

    and is it because its Obama or because its politics for a 6 years old that makes it bad?…hey just learning…your all way more experienced then in this…so its interesting to hear…

  34. hey do the blog a favor and delete the rant…it was there to get people to the blog and dicuss the real deal…

    I honestly dont think we have to even wait until 2012 election…things will get taken care of in 2010 midterm just like it did in 94…then just wait it out…

    but looks like the blog is gaining steam so that is wonderful news to hear…

  35. i just read a few of your posts kelli…and I was wrong…I thought you were going to be the standard bush loving obama hating person…through your writing you are not that person…you actually did have an open mind about the whole election thing…even though you disagreed…so please forgive me…

    but whoa I would never bring your fam into it…that is insane ….i hate when they do it on TV and they ask for it…i have a kid to and am way protective has well…

    I was questiioning the idea of home schooling ect…not what you would peronsally do persay…

    btw I KNOW my handwriting is not good…i am not blessed in that way…but i have many other talents which I am thankful for…..

  36. so please dont kick me off your blog..i rarely find strong minded people who just arent duplicates of Fox people…It so refreshing…so I apolgize again for my jerkiness …

    if you can handle the spelling/gramatical errors that is…

  37. Wow – all I can say is, I NEVER expected this on my blog today. Thanks to everyone for participating and for your (mostly) amazing thoughts and well thought out responses (again, mostly).

    E. Lehman – I especially thank you for reminding us that God is so much bigger than politics. Very well said and a much appreciated encouragement.

    MY whole goal in discussing this today was to make people aware that we as parents have not only the right but also the responsibility to know what our children are being fed. And I’m not alone in that desire or thought, apparently. You all are amazing – really, seriously, amazing!

  38. kelli…i was seriously wanting your thought on where I may be making a mistake…I really am concerned to over what kids learn..I did agree with you and think its crazy they would let people under highschool even watch…

    but…my question is for any who can help…

    should i be more concerend if my kid were to hear a success story about the life of our president…not to say he is a good president or what…but when you grow up many kids say they want to be pres and dont…and he did…

    and what would be the way in the future i could open the subject with them about stuff like that when they wont get it?

  39. My disaggreement is not necessarily about them learning about Obama’s upbringing. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with learning those facts. However, learning those facts and reading about his upbringing right AFTER they’ve heard him speak in their rooms is a little much. Therein lies my concern. And really, if they’re going to learn about Obama’s background, why shouldn’t they learn about the backgrounds of ALL the Presidents. Obama’s not the only guy to scrape his way to the top.

    It’s all about the perception of the event that is planned to ake place on Tuesday – that’s all…

  40. well i am glad i searched for what peoples views were about this and found your blog…gotta watch who you hear from..

    good point about that…i love lincolns story best personally…

    well will you accept my apology and forgive me for my behavior?

  41. btw all the other peoples blogs out there on this subject i found really were just politcally charged blogs both ways…i think i got worked up because of the other few and thought yours were same way..which THEY ARE NOT…you have honest good writing..and really do bring up real things…

  42. John – forgiveness granted. It would really be nice to have a more personal discussion about this, though. If you have anything else you would live to add or say, please email me at kellistuart00 (at) hotmail (dot) com. Thanks.

  43. DL,…

    Do you agree or disagree that things are heading in the wrong track right now with the socialized medicine, business, and higher taxes and inflation…

    I seriously agree with you…and the rest hear…but I am afraid (because i know a lot of them) the people obama represents…are not really scary evil people I was making the sarcastic remarks about…but just misinformed people…but I differ on hiding from them…but i dont think just comprimising is good ethier..

    but does keeping your kids away from it work? or is the better suggestion to expose them to it and explain it? I dont claim to know which but am open to ideas

  44. thanks for letting me ask my personal questions via email…that will be a big help…

    apolgies to the group on here…i really dont think you are morons or idiots …i was right there with the rest of us in nov…

    but i really am concerned we need a new game plan to beat obama in 12’….i think newt has a chance…

  45. Hey here is the real my wife is a friend of yours on facebook…I seriously APOLGIZE for messing with you

  46. please LEAVE me and my work out of this…I am a right wing person…but this hit me has a sore subject….

    I REALLY REALLY do apolgize…but i will leave…but please leave me alone

  47. I just was on the computer and saw it was on my wifes board and saw the post…i really did just want to stir the pot…I agree w/ most on this board…but then it got out of hand…I am a normal guy…and just differed on the subject…but please dont harm my family by putting my job in jepardy…you will find me to be a quite normal god fearing person…

  48. John – I’m not going to go after your job, and I do know who you are. I figured it out pretty quickly. But, please, it’s time to stop digging the hole. You made your point, we made ours. If you have anything else to say, just email me!

  49. i did email you you havent responded…

    it just freaked me out when my wife freaked out…messaged me the facebook posts…and was like one of our friends is hunting you down…and encourging others to call your work …thats pretty personal…

    i got worried…because the one thing internet is poor on is inflection…..has a writer you have the gift to make a picture…has EVERYONE here sees i flat out dont have that gift…please request on your facebook to pull the dogs off and that i wasnt trying to harass…

    let me know if you didnt get my email…i sent it to you i thought