By HAROLS KELLER

This time of year is exciting in many ways. Spring is here, baseball is in high gear, and it’s the end of another school year.

This is also the time when high school juniors and seniors have their annual prom. The dictionary defines a prom as a ball or dance, one given by a college or school class. I’m amazed how these school functions have gotten out of hand and with most of the parents consenting.

Years ago, these activities took place in the school gym and the students took part in the planning and decorating. It was a time to celebrate and get together for the last time before graduation.

The proms today are usually held out of town and couples rent limousines to take them to the dance. (It’s easier to drink in a limousine.)

Many students, with the permission of their parents, rent hotel rooms after the dance. I had a few parents tell me they prefer this than having their children drive home drunk. Why do we give them permission to get drunk?

How sad that we allow these things to go on and not take a strong stand against drinking.

Our young people are crying out for direction and discipline, and most parents are too weak to take control!

To the seniors who will be graduating in the next few weeks, I offer my congratulations! This will be one of the most exciting times of your life.

The people who will carry the fondest memories into the future are those who celebrate sober with families and friends. Please don’t allow alcohol or illegal drugs to rob you from enjoying something you have worked so hard to accomplish.

With all the good times you will have and the recognition you will receive, I know you also have a great expectation for a successful future. I realize that many of you are a little frightened at the uncertainty you face. What does life hold for me? Where will I fit in?

These are legitimate questions considering all the problems we have in this troubled world. May I offer a suggestion to where you can find the solution to every situation in life – the Bible. In fact, it would be the perfect graduation gift. It not only has the answer to evrey problem, it is also full of promises to those who choose the godly way.

A perfect scripture for those who are planning to attend a prom is found in Proverbs 20:1 – “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging; and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.”

To those who choose the goodlife, I love the promise in I Corinthians 2:9 – “It is written, eye hath not seen, or ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.”

HAROLD KELLER writes this column as part of his affiliation with the Get High on Life religious motivational group. Call him at (985) 652-8477 or write to P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084.