One of my student workers just called me to let me know he wouldn't be into work tomorrow because he was in jail for DUI and bemoaning the fact his car was sized and he would probably lose his license (obviously must not be his first DUI) and all the money he would have to spend in court costs, attorney fees and bail. Not once did he express remorse for what he did and some thankfulness that he didn't cause an accident where someone was hurt or lost their life because of him. All he could complain about was all the material stuff he had lost because he had only had "a couple of beers". This poem came to mind, the author is unknown.....as a parent though I have to admit this is one of my worst fears.


I went to a party mom, I remembered what you said,
You told me not to drink mom, so I drank soda instead
I really felt proud inside, Mom, the way you said I would
I didn't drink and drive, Mom, even though the others said I should
I know I did the right thing, Mom, I know you are always right
Now the party is finally ending, Mom, as everyone is driving out of sight
As I got into my car, Mom, I knew I'd get home in one piece
Because of the way you raised me, so responsible and sweet
I started to drive away, Mom, but as I pulled out into the road,
The other car didn't see me, Mom, it hit me like a load
As I lay here on the pavement, Mom, I hear the policeman say
The other guy is drunk, Mom, now I am the one who will pay
I am lying here dying, Mom....I wish you'd get here soon.
How could this happen to me, Mom? My life just burst like a balloon
There is blood all around me, Mom, and most of it is mine.
I hear the medic say, Mom, I'll die in a short time.
I just wanted to tell you, Mom, I swear I didn't drink.
It was the others, Mom. The others didn't think
He was probably at the same party as I
The only difference is, he drank and I will die
Why do people drink, Mom? It can ruin your whole life.
I'm feeling sharp pains, now. Pains just like a knife.
The guy who hit me is walking, Mom, and I don't think it's fair
I'm lying here dying, and all he can do is stare.
Tell my brother not to cry, Mom, tell daddy to be brave.
And when I go to heaven, Mom, put "Daddy's Girl" on my grave
Someone should have told him, Mom, not to drink and drive
If only they had told him, Mom, I would still be alive.
My breath is getting shorter, Mom, I am becoming very scared.
Please dont cry for me, Mom. When I needed you, you were always there.
I have one last question, Mom, before I say goodbye:
I didn't drink and drive, so why am I the one to die?

Author Unknown