Dear Salesian Family,

Peer Pressure -- we have all experienced it and used it. We have all felt the guilt of being seduced by it and the exhilaration of rising above ourselves because of it.

We often think that peer pressure is only an adolescent problem. Let’s not kid ourselves. We worry about what our buddies or girl friends think about us; we act according to what we believe our fellow employees think; we consider our neighbors’ opinions.

We worry about going against the tide of popular opinion. Everybody wants to be "in." How many dramas on stage, screen or TV would flop aborning if the protagonist would only use common sense, conscience, or principle in fending off the fear of "sticking out" or being different.

"Just say, ‘NO!’" is one of the rallying cries to resist drugs. Cynics scoff at this seemingly simplistic approach. But little do they realize the power and support it gives to young people who need to say "no."

Given the recent tragedy of Littleton, Colorado, one would wish that members of the "trench coat mafia" had said "no" when first attracted to it. The other ominous side of the coin is the formation of exclusive cliques. There is the age-old problem of "normal" versus "strange" when it comes to personalities, likes, dislikes, hobbies and habits.

Those who are perceived as "different" are often forced out of the mainstream. As a consequence, they seek out like-thinking companions. This isolation acts as a vicious circle, reinforcing differences instead of seeking common ground. It prevents opportunities to develop, correct, and refine one’s attitudes, beliefs, and practices.

I have no intention of castigating the students of Columbine High School. They are not to blame for their tragedy. But, they must realize the effect certain actions and attitudes have on others. What they and we have to learn, as a sad consequence, is that they and we need to be more aware how we treat others. We need to reach out to people who are different—different in race, creed, color, nationality, politics, and attitudes. This does not mean that we accommodate weirdness. We can use peer pressure to positive ends to help others see another viewpoint. This is not done by preaching, but by doing. We need to live our convictions based on our beliefs and principles, our justice and honesty, and reach out!

Lastly, there is evil in this world. There is such a thing as sin. We all experience this personally by contributing to it, or by feeling its effects. We cannot compromise on evil. We must not be surprised when it rears its ugly head. But in the spirit of Don Bosco, by embracing our youth, we can do much to prevent or, at least, avert it.