I am a 40-year-old man and father of two school-age children. I was brought to tears after hearing the story of the small children being left to die in the woods, the parents supposedly forgetting that they had left them behind (Jan. 23). Just recently, I also read about the young girl in New York (Jan. 22), who was beaten to death after also being treated like an animal.

It comes down to this: People should not have children or enter a relationship where children are present unless they are going to love, guide and cherish the children for the living jewels that they are. Adults may not have had the best upbringing in life, but it is possible to stop the cycle of abuse and ignorance. If a person has anger management problems, he or she should get help. Advocates for Children is a great organization that can help parents learn skills that are helpful in the prevention of abuse and neglect in the lives of children.

Chris Irish, Turner