April 30, 1999/14 Iyar 5759, Vol. 51, No.31 Letters to the Editor4/30/1999
Frustration can lead to anti-social behaviorEditor:Who is to blame for school violence? Psychiatrists, psychologists, teachers, our government? I've learned in my optometric practice that frustration as the result of vision or other impairments can be a cause for anti-social behavior. Seeking help for such problems can help a child achieve success and feel good about him or herself. Important, too, are parents who work to instill discipline and respect for authority in their children. Let's write front-page news on performers - not losers. Deal directly with your children's problems and don't be afraid to show love through discipline. They will thank you later. Jeffrey J. Eger Mesa Story captures museum's missionEditor:Michele Ackerman's article about the Sylvia Plotkin Judaica Museum (Jewish News, April 16) captured the essence of our educational mission for both the Jewish and the secular communities. I was especially pleased to find that our concept of being a "Museum Without Walls" translated well. Thank you for the meaningful presentation. Pamela S. Levin, director Sylvia Plotkin Judaica Museum Scottsdale Respect lacking at templeEditor:I attended a bar mitzvah last week and was offended by the lack of respect that the Jewish youth showed. There were some 50 bar and bat mitzvah age boys and girls at the Saturday morning service. The youngsters were changing seats, talking and walking around in groups. The disruption continued when the ark was opened, during the Torah reading and even when their friend was delivering her speech. At one point during the service, the cantor actually had to ask from the pulpit for quiet. But not once did any parents dare ask their children to show respect and sit still. Add to this the revealing attire of several of the young girls, which was not appropriate in temple for a girl or woman of any age. I have seen such disrespectful behavior and dress many times in many congregations. I have been to Christian church services and there is a marked difference. There is quiet and respect and reverence. You see parents teaching and even scolding their children when they are ill-mannered. Congregations should not have to establish guidelines for behavior. Parents should. Meyer Turken Phoenix |
