In a world where there are so many negative distractions and mixed messages, raising a child, even for the most dedicated parents, is a daunting task.Children these days are exposed to things previous generations never dreamed of. As a result, young people question more, and expect answers, on countless subjects that often have parents scrambling to avoid sounding as though they are attempting to evade an issue.In a sense, raising a child in the modern world is like training an astronaut. In both instances, being unaware of important factors, could lead to major errors. Of course in space that is not an option when lives depends on every move.Just as it takes a highly skilled team of scientific experts to fully train an astronaut, a child today needs more than a village of support to wade through the many obstacles preventing them from learning basic values.Too often, adults get so caught up in their day-to-day struggle to stay afloat that they forget that children form attitudes based mainly on what they hear and see. Even the most well intentioned parents or guardians are not perfect.We all make mistakes, but unlike the old days, old-fashioned community support in bringing up children, has weakened considerably. The result has been more troubled young people adrift without a moral compass and thus vulnerable to the underworld, and potential gang activity.Some years ago I asked a young man how he got involved with illegal drugs. Without hesitation, he replied he had little choice, since both of his parents were doing the same thing. This revelation may or may not have been an isolated case, but it showed how poor examples could result in dire consequences.Government has indicated that it is considering easing the penalty for a young person caught using a small amount of cannabis to avoid a conviction that could place them on a travel stop list. The move has merit, since a young person with promise, could through peer pressure and a moment of weakness, make a judgment error.However, extreme caution should be taken to avoid a mixed signal that might give the impression that sneaking a joint is no big deal.If the Government intends to scrub convictions for small amounts of cannabis, it must have in place some type of punishment that clearly sends a message to our young people that there is a price to be paid for any type of unlawful activity.By the same token, tougher legislation is needed for those who overindulge with alcohol and then drive, placing themselves and others in danger. It is one thing to be placed on a stop list, but being taken off the life list because of a drunken driver cannot be reversed.With the holiday period fast approaching and parties up and down the Island, the Police will be on the lookout for people operating vehicles while under the influence of alcohol, or some other type of substance that interferes with judgment. Until the punishment for such offences is made far more severe, the public will be at risk.Young people need to know that any substance that blares mental alertness is a negative. The US Navy conducted tests some years ago with two sets of gunners. One group used marijuana prior to the test. The final result showed a slower response from the team affected by marijuana use. A clear mind is needed to perform at the highest level.There are too many mixed signals on important issues. If a person knew driving while under the influence carried a mandatory five-year sentence from operating any type of motor vehicle, few would take the chance.Bermuda needs to re examine legislation designed to discourage driving under the influence and young people experimenting with illegal drugs. Bermuda faces grave economic and social issues that seem endless, and our future as a peaceful and successful society is at risk.Many Bermudians throughout our history made great sacrifices to build this country during tough times. Our future will depend on what we do to meet the challenges of today.