To the editor
Having read the remarks from the Kindfield family, Ms. Johanesen and Ms. Mariani, I felt compelled to address their letter. I disagree whole-heartedly with what you are doing and saying, but I will defend your right to do it.
That’s why we live in the greatest country in the world. In Iraq, you could be shot for disagreeing with your government. We have the freedom to disagree. What I don’t understand is why you are so surprised to have received such negative feedback.
If you accept the fact that you have the right to make a dissenting opinion, you also need to accept the fact that others are allowed to disagree with you. They have the right to become angry about your position. Do you realize the passion that you are inflaming in people?
Yes, criticism should be handled in a responsible manner, but you must remember that people are taking their positions in a very personal way. Do you have a son or daughter serving in the military? Have you ever served in the military (which helps to protect our right to protest)? Have you ever had a family member killed in the line of duty? Have you ever thought that your protests could possibly be just what Saddam Hussein was hoping for?
Maybe, just maybe, you could have a little more compassion for your critics.
I come from a military family, with my dad serving in the Navy and losing his only two brothers in action during World War II. Yet, I can only imagine the anguish of the families of our service people who must be patient to wait at home.
Try "walking a mile in the other person’s shoes" and see if you can understand their anger at your peace protests. We all want peace, but sometimes it comes at a very high cost.
Let’s support those who are paying the ultimate price.
Surrey Drive