I heard a poem on the radio.  It isn't about police
officers but it might help people understand how terrible
it is to drink and drive.  The poem goes like this:

"I went to a party, Mom, I remembered what you said.
You told me not to drink, Mom, so I drank soda instead
I really felt proud inside, Mom, the way you said I would.
I didn't drink and drive, Mom, even though the others said I should.

I know I did the right thing, Mom, I know you are always right.
Now the party is finally ending, Mom, everyone is driving out of sight.
As I got into my car, Mom, I knew I'd get home in one piece.
Because of the way you raised me, so responsible and sweet.

I started to drive away, Mom, but as I pulled out into the road,
the other other car didn't see me, Mom, and hit me like a load.
As I lay there on the pavement, Mom, I here the policeman say,
the other guy is drunk, Mom, and I know I am the one who will pay.

I'm lying here dying, Mom.. I wish you'd get here soon.
How could this happen to me, Mom? My life just burst like a balloon.
There is blood all around me, Mom, and most of it is mine.
I hear the medic say, Mom, I'll die in a short time.

I just wanted to tell you, Mom, I swear I didn't drink.
It was the others Mom.  The others didn't think.
He was probably at the same party as I.
The only difference is, he drank an I will die.

Why do people drink, Mom?  It can ruin your whole life.
I am feeling sharp pains now. Pains like a knife.
The guy who hit me is walking, Mom, and I don't think it is fair.
I'm lying here dying and all he can do is stare.

Tell my brother not to cry, Mom.  Tell Daddy to be brave.
And when I go to heaven, Mom, put "Daddy's Girl" on my grave

Someone should have told him, Mom, not to drink and drive."

The End

Thank You for your time.

From,

Amanda King
June 7th, 1998
 
P.S.  A few days ago a San Diego CHP was killed in the line of duty. He crashed his car while on his way to catch a DUI.  If only that criminal knew what could happen when he drank and drive.