We teach our children to take responsibility for their actions, and that actions have consequences.

And we punish them for doing bad things, even when they show remorse and promise never to do it again, to uphold the things we teach them.

But we're quick to excuse the most heinous behavior because the perpetrator was on drugs, or had a bad childhood, or repented.

So our kids get a mixed message. No wonder they get confused.

Karla Faye had to take responsibility for her actions, and her actions had consequences.