[Vision2020] Re: opinions are important

[roger hayes]

>
Tami:

Opinions, but most particularly, publicly expressed opinions by 
community, religious, political, and media folks are important.  They 
often set the tone of how we present ourselves to the world at large.  
Mr. Wilson's publication, and the church's he represents, leave him,  
and his church, very vulnerable to repercussions.  Criticisms are one 
way, we, as a free society,  protect ourselves from outrageous 
behavior.  And indeed the publication in question is reprehensible.  
Further, the paid add in the paper did noting but express contempt for 
our community, our society, and our culture of racial equality, and our 
values.  Freedom of speech carries responsibilities. That is what is 
missing from the equation presented.

I have listened to how minority students are viewing this situation and 
it bodes evil for our reputation as a safe, kind, and tolerant place to 
live, educate, raise kids into which one may invest in one's future.  I 
think it is important that people speak very openly, and freely about 
this threat to our peace. I would wish for a ground swell of opposition 
to the sort of opinions you are asking us to ignore.  They are far more 
devastating to people than arguing sports teams or ordering pizza.
Finally, as a bit of an older citizen with a sense of history, I find 
it crucial that our community continues to converse on this subject, 
and oppose directions it may turn which are very distasteful, and 
certainly unhealthy.
Sincerely,

Roger Hayes
Moscow


> Carl,
>
> I'm with you.  While I do not agree with Doug Wilson, or what his book 
> says, I think simply stating that is enough (or more than enough???) 
> and choose to move on.  I think being tolerant allows for everybody to 
> have their opinions, no matter how much we disagree.  Agree to 
> disagree, and move on.  Why isn't he allowed to believe or say such 
> things about slavery, if that is what he truly feels?  I know it is 
> hurtful to some, but in my opinion, only if we allow it to be.  Does 
> anybody REALLY think they are going to change his mind?  Who cares if 
> we don't agree?  Who REALLY cares if that is what he believes?  Say to 
> yourself "that's crazy, absurd, ridiculous!" but he is still allowed 
> to have those opinions different from our own.  (just as I'm allowed 
> to believe that the Oakland Raiders are the best team in the NFL, even 
> though people almost pass out laughing when I express this opinion out 
> loud, but that's a different story...stop laughing...)
>
> Now, if suddenly we notice people are being bought and sold at a 
> Christ Church auction, well, that's a different story!  My point is 
> just that whether or not another person takes Mr. Wilson's values, 
> beliefs, and statements to heart or not, is a personal decision.  For 
> me, I have other things to worry about than the fact that I don't 
> agree with what he says.  For example, what am I going to eat for 
> dinner tonight? (or rather, what pizza joint are we going to order 
> from?)  Is there any good television shows on tonight?  Will my son 
> wake me at 5 or 6 am tomorrow?  And, what on EARTH are we going to do 
> for Thanksgiving????
>
> Speaking of that, best wishes to all for a Happy Thanksgiving, and 
> please be careful if you are traveling!
>
> Tami Stinebaugh
>
>