The Axiom Of Responsibility
Individuals Demonstrate Valid Behavior
By Taking Responsibility
For Themselves And Their Children

Yesterday, President Obama gave his controversial back-to-school speech. ("Obama Urges Students To Work Hard, Stay In School") The uproar over its possible content started with "a proposed lesson plan created by the Education Department to accompany the address":

An initial version of the plan recommended that students draft letters to themselves discussing "what they can do to help the president." The letters "would be collected and redistributed at an appropriate later date by the teacher to make students accountable to their goals," the plan stated.

After pressure from conservatives, the White House distributed a revised version encouraging students to write letters about how they can "achieve their short-term and long-term education goals." [Education Secretary Arne] Duncan said Sunday that the passage was poorly worded.

Whether you believe the concerns over the speech were completely valid or political jockeying, the end result was an excellent, much-needed reinforcement of student responsibility. Please take the time to read or watch the address, and if you have children, have them do so as well. Here is an excerpt we found particularly spot on:

But at the end of the day, we can have the most dedicated teachers, the most supportive parents, and the best schools in the world - and none of it will matter unless all of you fulfill your responsibilities. Unless you show up to those schools; pay attention to those teachers; listen to your parents, grandparents and other adults; and put in the hard work it takes to succeed.

And that's what I want to focus on today: the responsibility each of you has for your education. I want to start with the responsibility you have to yourself.

Every single one of you has something you're good at. Every single one of you has something to offer. And you have a responsibility to yourself to discover what that is. That's the opportunity an education can provide.

Tonight at 8 p.m. E.T., President Obama is going to address Congress about his plans for health care reform. ("Obama's Speech A Health Care 'Game Changer'?") It is every American's duty to stay informed on these issues, as the decisions of today will affect every generation to come. Please listen to both sides of the aisle with a discerning ear, and use the facts (not rhetoric) to make up your own mind.

Anna and Ellie Sherise
Creators of Magna Sententia
Authors of Magna Sententia: The Logical Cure for Our Society