Forgiving the Sins of our Youth, and Theirs

I made some pretty poor choices during my high school and college days.  I don't plan on ever running for public office because, I don't want people checking into my past.  It's probably a good thing I live in Texas, a thousand miles away from where I grew up.  As far as I know, there are no witnesses to my to my teenage indiscretions in the general vicinity.  Somewhere there are people who could provide some pretty sordid details.  I have always felt it was some of those poor decisions and the consequences that have helped me identify with teens.  My goal always has been to help kids make smart choices. 

I thought about the sins of my youth last week when I read about Christy Deweese.  Christy is the Dallas teacher who's job is in jeopardy because of a choice she made during her college years.  Christy worked part-time as a model.  In that role she  was selected as Co-Ed of the Month by Playboy Magazine.  She earned her degree and now is a Spanish teacher at Townview Middle School.  When her Playboy spread became public, some called for her firing.  Parents and students alike are coming to her defense saying she is a good teacher who cares about her students.  Those calling for her firing point to the fact that the students have found pictures of Ms. Deweese on the Internet.  You can imagine that they are the topic of conversation among the students, especially the boys. 

OK, I would feel a little uncomfortable if one of her students was my son or grandson.  I would prefer they learn Spanish and not human anatomy from her. Still, if she is a competent teacher I think we need to view this as a teachable moment for everyone involved.  It's an opportunity to talk about how our decisions have consequences.  It also should cause us to reflect on how we practice grace and forgiveness in our lives.   I am not sure of the level of contrition when it comes to Christy Deweese, but I am aware of countless people who cross my path everyday who carry the burden of past mistakes.  They continue to be haunted by the memories of past decisions and their negative consequences.  My calling is to help them learn from their past, to heal and move forward.  The past determines where we are today, but has no bearing on where the future might take them.