Fifty years ago, I was teaching high school History and English in Opa Locka, Florida, a poor area north of Miami. I had a different message than most of the other teachers, many of whom were worn down by the rowdy working-class student body.

I tried to convince the urchins that life would likely be painful for them if they didn't wise up and develop their God-given talents.

That confused some in my classes because they had never been told they even possessed talent. Their parents weren't smart enough to bring that up. Or they didn't care enough to do it.

I got through to most of my students but certainly not all. There were a number of self-destructive kids that weren't much interested in any kind of life success.

I preached the Gospel of discipline and self-reliance, two attributes that are under fire by woke progressives today. They say the American system is rigged and minority citizens can't succeed; only a big, liberal government can save them.

So false. So destructive. But that's the mantra and the kids hear it. Tougher to be an honest teacher today.

See you beginning at six eastern for the No Spin News!