"Character education in a public school" (C.I. June 2006, p. 20).

In his article, Doug McManaman seems to be lamenting the fact that within the public school system there is a genuine problem of teaching proper character development-and that seems to be so. The problem has been going on since humanism has become so dominant in our society.

I am so glad to see the topic of character development receiving attention in Catholic Insight. Just as the school advertised "Character Matters," I too believe character matters, making the difference as to whether a person is truly successful and fulfilled in life.

However, we are in need of godly role models everywhere, be it in the homes, the schools and in the public square, praising good character more than outward appearance or a person's economic net worth. Josiah Gilbert Holland said, "No nation can be destroyed while it possesses a good home life." Ideally, character development needs to start in the home. Those without this precious deposit from their parents are truly at a loss, tossed about by peer pressure, trying to gain attention by pleasing to gain love from others and through acting on ungodly desires--they are open to exploitation and manipulation.

As Mr. McManaman quotes from I John: "Beloved, if God has loved us, we must have the same love for one another."

Jesus teaches us that there are many facets to love. We need to be "Salt and Light" just like Pope John Paul encouraged us during WYD. Charles Haddon Spurgeon said: "Live a holy life ... I have heard it said that if there is a crooked stick, and you want to show how crooked it is, you need not waste words in description. Place a straight one by the side of it, and the thing is done directly ..."

Just like we need Christian men and women to run for public office, so we need Christian children--who have learned proper character development in their home and are able to stand alone without succumbing to peer pressures--to win others to Christ by their example.

The more we speak the truth in love, are seasoned with salt, and let the light of the Gospel shine through us, being innocent as doves and wise as serpents, we'll live to see Canada's prophetic destiny fulfilled-in the schools as well as in public office.

I'm encouraged as I review Achieving True Success: How to build Character as a family. This is a valuable tool made available by an organization whose founder was a youth pastor; he teaches that we can trace problems to character deficiencies and root causes (wrong responses to God). This youth pastor now shares God's wisdom all over the world with those who care to learn to correctly respond to God's grace. I share his vision to see his Character Curriculum taught in our Canadian public school system. In God's time and by His grace we shall overcome, to leave a godly heritage for the next generation.

While the quote from St. Augustine: "Oh, Lord, you made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in thee" is a true condition for some of us all the time, I believe our ultimate end is to glorify God. May God give us the grace and strength to do so--God be with you!

Toronto, ON