Dear Ann Landers: As a public school teacher and elementary principal for more than 32 years, I have seen many parents who failed to realize how important it is to take an active role in their child’s development. Recently, my mother passed away, and I found the attached clipping among her possessions. I have shared it with my school community and received many positive comments. I thought you might want to share it with your readers.
Sandra Shenkir, Houston
Dear Sandra Shenkir: Thank you for your thoughtfulness. The wisdom of Sam Levenson, who was a public school teacher, is legendary. His Ten Commandments are well worth noting. So pleased that you sent them on. My personal favorites are Nos. 9 and 10.
Levenson’s Ten Commandments
1. Thou shalt guard thy children in the home and on the street.
2. Thou shalt make thy home a sanctuary of love and devotion.
3. Thou shalt honor the teachers of thy children and teach thy children to honor them.
4. Thou shalt not condone the faults of thy children through a misguided sense of loyalty.
5. Thou shalt teach thy children respect for the law and keep them from the companionship of children who indicate disrespect for law.
6. Thou shalt not lead thy children into temptation by providing them with the means thereof, to wit, too much money, a car and adult privileges.
7. Thou shalt enforce decency in the dress of thy daughters and dignity in the dress of thy sons.
8. Thou shalt protect the morals of thy children from the indiscretions of youthful ardor and inexperience.
9. Thou shalt conduct thine own affairs in such a manner as to set an example worthy of imitation by thy children.
10. Thou shalt not permit thy children to bear arms, except in the service of their country.
Dear Ann Landers: In June, my son will be marrying a lovely girl from a wonderful family. Her father is a surgeon, and her family seems used to having the very best of everything. My family is run-of-the-mill middle class.
“Janet” is a lovely girl, and I am happy to welcome her to our family. However, I was hurt by an incident that took place during the wedding shower. Janet’s mother, who appears to be a very gracious woman, made a point of showing me the beautiful silk suit she plans to wear to the wedding. She said it was traditional for the bride and groom’s mothers to compare dresses to make sure they don’t select the same outfit.
I have never heard of such a tradition. She knows I couldn’t possibly afford such a suit. I suspect she was telling me that I need to buy something up to her standards. Was it tacky of her to do this, or am I being overly sensitive?
Feeling Scruffy in Seattle
Dear Seattle: Tacky? Not in the least. I believe you are overreacting to what you feel is a “class difference.” It is indeed customary for the mothers in the wedding party to make certain their colors don’t clash. Relax and have a wonderful time.
“A Collection of My Favorite Gems of the Day” is the perfect little gift for that special someone who is impossible to buy for. Send a self-addressed, long, business-size envelope and a check or money order for $5.25 to: Collection, c/o Ann Landers, P.O. Box 11562, Chicago, Ill. 60611-0562.
