Change is inevitable in the world of invention and intervention. One change that is in the works would have devastating effects on the family as we know it today -- in all its shapes and forms. There is a push to ratify the U.N. Convention on the rights of the child. It sounds like a sincere effort to enhance the lives of our children, but it will destroy the ability of parents to make sound choices for children with underdeveloped minds and judgment.

It would allow children to choose their companions: The 14-year-old girl could choose to date the 34-year-old man. It would allow children to choose their activities: The 12-year-old boy could stay out as long as he wishes. It would prevent parents from placing any limits on or requirements of children's behavior.

At the dawn of this nation, parental rights were unquestioned. In the early 1900s litigation led to case law, which supported the contention that parental rights are fundamental rather than conferred rights. All of that will change if the UNCRC is ratified.

In the United States our Constitution is the highest law. The next highest laws are not those passed by our Congress or our states but rather the treaties with other nations ratified by our government. The treaties supersede all else but the Constitution.

There is a move to amend the Constitution to state that parental rights as practiced in the United States will not be infringed by any treaties. This amendment will not change our current understanding or practice; it will protect it against the stream of change in which we live.

We, the people of the United States, have amended the Constitution 27 times in 230 plus years. It is time to do so again.

Lacy Pessagno

Aberdeen