"...He That Hath No Stomach For This Fight, Let Him Depart."

Odysseus and the Sirens                                                               British Museum

It is unfortunate that political correctness has infected our culture to the point where the classic literature of Western civilization must be cleansed for nine year olds. That is the case in Seattle where the parent of a third-grader has objected to some phrases  that were to appear in the class's production of an abridged version of Homer's Odyssey. The parent certainly has a right to object. Furthermore, I admit that staging this production for third-graders is ambitious. I also acknowledge the learning potential from such an opportunity and find it unfortunate that we must restrain the reach of all by cancelling a play because one person objects. The principal made a serious administrative error. Far better to seek compromise - apparently the play will be revised -  rather than cancellation.

We may be quite surprised about learning if we could only move beyond the boundaries we erect around ourselves and our children.

We always taught our children to reach for their personal infinities, then go beyond. And we think Buzz Lightyear would have made a great teacher.


A big hat tip to Sippican Cottage for posting the video. Sip's blog is well worth your time - superb writing, compelling subjects, admirable politics.