We rage over the destruction of cemetery monuments and gravestones. We deplore the graffiti and vandalism which has been visited on our churches during recent months. Yet we do not seem to understand just what is causing this religious vandalism. Now and then we see mailboxes and other things destroyed, but it seems that the churches and cemeteries are the most frequent targets of these wanton acts.

Citizens, our young people are angry. There is a lack of leadership where their anger could be channeled into much better avenues. When we sit on our butts, watching television and slugging alcohol instead of trying to lead our young into more favorable adventures, we are letting them and our communities down.

Whether or not it would help, I believe that a peacetime draft of all men and women over the age of 18 could possibly turn their ideas around and let them see just what lies ahead when they are taught discipline, the discipline which should have been shown to them in their homes, their schools and yes, in the churches which have been so much in the news lately. The numerous charges of child abuse in our religious institutions do not give our young people much faith to follow.

Our elected officials who preach fidelity and then reveal that they themselves do not follow their own preaching cannot leave any good impression on the youngsters of our country. Our own governor caught in his illicit bed. One of the most favored presidential candidates lost to his own lust. Where does it end?

Ronald Hanson

Norfolk