In example above, police, as are most people, were woefully misinformed.

Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah and D.C. recognize common-law marriages. Ohio repealed its recognition in 1992. Pennsylvania has just now abolished it. Other states may recognize an informal marriage if it was originally contracted within one of these states.

In past, common-law marriage was often seen on lower socio-economic rungs of ladder. However, celebrities often make news with claims by their live-ins of this status.

If you are concerned about your own status, contact an attorney in your state for more information.

Will problem solving, peaceful negotiations, or finding solutions that benefit both sides without any violent act be lost forever? Will today's child grow up with "beating" other guy at any expense, and showing no mercy? Are parents ready to cope with problems that anger and violence can nurture as a child is confounded by news, television, movies, and even playthings that prove that most cunning, and violent victor is really victor? Will a child learn reasoning, negotiation, and partnership when toys in bright packages are grotesque and chilling?

We certainly want our childen safe, but in our endeavors toward this safety, have we robbed our children of having plaything that shows, love, respect, friendship, and just plain fun? Are we, as parents, giving them a choice, or directing their feelings and emotions to victory at all costs?

Childhood, holidays, and playtime were times to "get away" for a while and enjoy being a child. We can't rightfully rob our children of this under guise that they have right to know what is really "out there". Yes, in time and with each appropriate age, they will find out and they will deal with situations because they have had a solid background of knowing right from wrong, peaceful means from violent, and doing right thing - at all costs.

Isn't this legacy worth aiming for - and letting toys be toys - and not elements of bad dreams and viscious plots? Cars do not turn into laser yielding mean robots, and bugs are not taking over world - to a child - or to an adult. There is a time and place for instructing our children to be vigilant and protect themselves, but there is also time for play and imagination. They need both

Stores sell - parents buy - that's a lot of power and say so - Enjoy! ©Arleen M. Kaptur 2003 October