To the Editor:
Rumor is defined as: a general talk not based on definite knowledge; a piece of unverified information of uncertain origin usually spread by word of mouth.
Recently, there have been questionable actions and accusations about kids in this area, running rampant through our community and school. Kids, whether there actions are right or wrong, are going to behave as kids. As they should. Adults should be held to a higher standard. And as adults we are responsible to mentor, encourage, support, and discipline when necessary our children. With those responsibilities, it is our duty to make certain the punishment fits the crime. OR much more important, that a crime was even committed. Why, as society, are we so quick to believe someone guilty of something, even without evidence to support that judgment? I was taught, in this very school system, that in this great country we are innocent until proven guilty. Not the case around here. In this particular situation, several kids have been accused and assumed guilty, even though they have proven to be innocent and done nothing wrong. And yet the gossip, comments, rumors, and accusations continue throughout the town and school from all sources.
Find the facts before passing along any information about anyone. Rumors are brutal! They do more damage than any of us really realize. So the next time you choose to repeat a “rumor”, think about your own kids, grandkids, nieces, nephews or even a family friend. I have to wonder if it were them that a rumor was about, would you repeat it? Chances are you would not. As a community, lets uplift our youth, embrace them, show them we believe in them and not tear them down. Not everything you hear is the truth. Most of it is false with a little bit of flavor added each time it reaches someone new. So, I challenge our school administrators, faculty, coaches, parents and students as well as the entire community to rise up and be people that are good examples for others. Don’t repeat false information especially when it involves a child. Ask yourself these questions before repeating or even speaking: THINK: T is it true?, H is it helpful?, I is it inspiring?, N is it necessary?, K is it kind?
Be kinder than usual, everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle...
Brandi Phillips
Carrollton, Ohio
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