Upholding an Image...

I don't necessarily think it's *fair* to hold some to higher standards than others, but I can see how it can be necessary. For example, athletes who are idolized by children and teens really need to watch their behavior in public (just as teachers do). I'd say more, but I need to go for now. In short, I don't think you're off-base, no.

I think you should be true to your self and live your life the way you would like to no matter what your profession. I think some professions have higher expectations then others and some things I think are just common sense rather then based on profession. No one should set a bad example for a child no matter what profession.

Unfortunately, perhaps holding a higher standard for someone who teaches may not be a bad thing. A role model? However, a teacher is human as well - and only those with adult/mature minds would understand the "teacher is not teaching, but being human" when seeing this. Good post

It may not be *fair* to hold some to a higher standard... but I agree with you that teachers should be just that - teachers... And police, and ministers - elected officials? (now that could open a can of worms - however, I was an elected official in my local union and I had a booklet that listed what was expected of such a position). I also agree that everyone should have the right to a social life, but public drunkenness, spousal abuse, driving while whatever, drugs (even prescription drugs can be abused), public profanity - are all against the law... and those areas pretty much cover the things you could do in public that your *students* *constituents* *etc.* shouldn't be privy to. So, no, I don't think you're off base, but getting the people in most of those positions (or the ones that do any of such things anyway) are not going to agree. You have those people who are proud of what their image is and care about the image they project... and you have those who could care less what anyone thinks.
And here's a thought that is an actuality - my boyfriend is a recovering alcoholic - he does tend to fall off the wagon in certain company. At his old job - auto mechanic in one of the popular area garages, it was mentioned to him that he not do his falling at the local bar but to keep it at home behind closed doors. The customers hang out at the local bar and do not want to know a *drunk* is working on their vehicle. True story.
He has moved up - sideways - ??? and now does body work at a different, but equally as popular establishment, but the same rule applies.

Good thoughts. I tend to agree with Angie O. on this one. Good comments everyone.