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Along Life’s Way
The Three R’s—A Choice
By Lois E. Wilson
The origin of the phrase “three R’s” is disputed. It is attributed to
an 1818 space-filler in “The Lady’s Magazine.” Also, it has been
credited to a 1795 speech by Sir William Curtis. The phrase is a wry
interpretation of the basics we hope all learn: “Reading, ‘Riting, and
‘Rithmetic.”
Other groups have created 3-R lists to fit their causes. For example,
in regard to sustainability, the 3 R’s are “reduce, reuse, and
recycle.” The 3-R’s of protection and safety are “recognize, resist,
and report.”
As I watched the protests which have been unfolding over recent weeks
these questions arose: What are the fundamentals being taught? What are
young people seeing and taking in from what is being shown? Is
the message positive or negative?
Our country strives to correct injustices. At times there is a need to
remind us that they do still exist. But in many of the protests, the
reason for them has been usurped by some with ill intent and bad
results have occurred. People have been injured and killed in the
protests.
Therefore, our children have seen 3-R’s of “retaliation, rebellion, and
robbery.” The message for equality and change has become mixed and lost
in the anarchy.
In the field of sexuality education, the 3-R’s are “rights, respect,
and responsibility.” These are some of the words that could be a part
of a positive approach to solving the problems of sexism, racism and
ageism found in society.
All of us have rights. We must respect these and the people we are
trying to help before we can reverse or reconcile differences and
inequalities that exist.
It is hoped that restraint and cooler heads will prevail and answers
will be found that will improve work and living conditions for all. It
is our goal to make life better for our generation and those to come.
Let us pledge to work for a new reality—a remedy based on “reform,
responsibility and reason.” That is a positive 3-R goal—one that should
benefit us and our children and one that is most likely to result in
living our lives in a peaceful world.
It is not too late—it is fundamental—let’s start today!
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