THE COCAINE WAR

We propose an effective and efficient tack that would eradicate the market for drugs. We suggest a systematic engendering and enhancement of individual self-esteem and responsibility among our youth. Ideally, this would be done at home, from the crib. Realistically, it’s not, so the schools must incorporate self-esteem and personal responsibility skills, starting in kindergarten.

It is an irrefutable fact that individuals with a strong, positive sense of self aren’t as likely to succumb to pushers’ tactics. Conversely, those who use the wares of pushers fall prey largely because they have low self-esteem and a lack of coping skills--and therefore no pride, no self-determination, no personal responsibility--to counterbalance the smooth sales job, the peer pressure.

Imagine the results if the money and manpower spent on fighting the cocaine war on the enemy’s terms were instead expended on well-proven programs that create and nurture strong self-esteem and personal responsibility, beginning with the upcoming generation of would-be drug-lord targets.

B. DAVID BROOKS

REX K. DALBY

CO-AUTHORS, “THE SELF-ESTEEM REPAIR

AND MAINTENANCE MANUAL”

Huntington Beach