August 9,2025- I will be something of a “helicopter” grandfather, to the extent my little family needs my services in the care of a little angel, sometime early next year. We have, as a species, always had to protect our children from harm, whether from the forces of nature-or from those who mean to hurt them.

In the past few months, three rather high-profile cases, of intentional murder of young girls, have taken place in Arizona. More common, are cases of less than lethal abuse and neglect of children and teens, as those around them tell themselves that life is too complicated, even to the point that the kids are expected to behave like adults, or that adults ought to have room to act like children.

This brings up the matter of Roblox, a virtual world that presents itself as an entertainment universe. It is geared towards children and youth, and is presumably seen by some as a means to occupy their offspring’s or charges’ time, thus freeing them up to do their own business. In other words, it is the new TV, available on tablets or Smart Phones. Roblox has a certain appeal, therefore, to those who do not have good intentions towards children, or who seek an outlet for their frustrations or anger, by harassing or harming the vulnerable. It is not, in my opinion, suitable for anyone under the age of 16, or maybe 18.

I will do everything in my power to educate my granddaughter, and any siblings she may have, in the ways of discernment and self-protection. I expect that my role in that regard will be secondary. Son and daughter-in-law are sober and mindful adults, who have a clear idea of their responsibilities.

By extension, I continue to hold the same ethic regarding any young person who crosses my path. Whether in the remaining weeks and months of my time here in Prescott, whilst abroad, or in whatever new Home Base to which I am brought next year, the welfare of our rising generations is at the core of my being.

In any case, I steadfastly oppose those whose view of children and youth-or of other people in general-is that they are playthings, or trifles to be used-and discarded.