Today’s society needs smoking guidelines

Smoking is a big issue in today's society, so we set up rules, regulations and guidelines. That's exactly what the Irving City Council did in December, when it passed an ordinance that took effect last month.

Now, smokers must remain at least 25 feet outside the entrance to a building where smoking is banned or restricted.

Restaurants can dedicate no more than 30 percent of their floor space as smoking areas, and they must install ventilation systems that funnel smoke away from other diners.

This is interesting because the new ordinance also applies to the smokefree North Lake campus.

Some people are happy about that, and some aren't. But for the sake of everyone, we can all adjust our daily activities around these new restrictions.

“As long as it say away from me, I'm fine,” student Doris Blaylock said of the smoke.

Val Hughes said: “It doesn't matter because when I go into a restaurant, I already know what to expect.”

Smokers should have respect for nonsmokers, because that shows respect for themselves as well.

This, in turn, has a big influence on our children, because they see the positive effect it has on us adults. By setting good examples, this helps our children to become law-abiding citizens.

We can learn from both sides of the fence. We can come together and agree or disagree and still have respect for one another.

That sets a good standard for all children.

After all, what we do for today, our children will do for tomorrow.