My column “Toward a Kinder Generation” (Feb. 6) was about the need for better education of parents to help break the cycle of abuse and neglect of children, which results in a cycle of abuse in future generations.

I have learned that we who express our opinions in print to The Pilot can learn a great deal from the responses. People respond in several ways: through the “Discuss” avenue on the Internet; in future Opinion letters to The Pilot which refer to one’s words; and phone calls to discuss some aspect of one’s words.

“Discuss” bloggers don’t use their real names. “Nothing Special” said that my column was right on target and even offered support to all parents. Two other bloggers wanted the “good old days” when children were better behaved.

One unknown phone caller wanted to know only one thing about the abusive parent, “Was that woman black?” When I said, “No, she was white,” his retort revealed prejudice.

One letter, “Educating Parents To Do What?” (Feb. 15), said my column was reasonable and logical until I mentioned the name Michelle Obama. With a stretch that made no sense, she went on a diatribe against President Obama.

What did I learn from feedback? One who changes the subject to the good old days is not ready to deal with the present; one who is prejudiced is another problem, a big problem; one who uses my column as a jumping-off place to turn a family matter into angry politics needs anger management counseling.

“Nothing Special” taught me that she and other Baby Boomers are poised to help all parents meet the challenge of effective parenting. God bless her.

Hilda Mitchell

Pinebluff