Ask Hale’s talking mule
We deserve better
Regarding “Getting vaccinated is hard — even for an icon,” (A17, Jan. 10): This essay speaks volumes on the sad state of affairs we all find ourselves in. My husband was a devoted fan of Leon Hale and the private musings of his talking mule. For decades, Hale represented an admired and respected voice of quiet articulation, common sense and sound reasoning, and my husband always looked forward to his next penning. Fast forward to the politics of 2020, where, sadly, negative rhetoric has caused a downward spiral in truth and accountability, and the high road once extolled and taken by Hale has been all but abandoned. Instead, some of our politicians, at all levels of government, have promoted and encouraged mixed messaging, mismanagement or the crass perpetuation of self-interest, denial or indifference at very shameful, base levels. In addition to vaccine production, they have had more than nine months and the resources to come up with a blueprint for a delivery system. Passing the buck, creating communication “chaos” where none should exist, abdicating responsibility and placing blame on other diversionary political barriers were never valid solutions. What an affront to the tireless dedication of our medical, front-line and mental health professions, our resources, our valuable time and collective well-being as citizens! Hale and those many, many people who continue to follow in his footsteps deserve so much better. We all deserve better. I can only wonder what the talking mule, in his infinite wisdom, would say about that.
Carla Scanlan, Houston
Justice Forward
Regarding “Why I became a believer in specialty courts,” (A15, Jan. 10): What a refreshing and positive article by Devon Anderson which you presented in Outlook. My wife and I are always looking for well run, particularly effective charities and Justice Forward seems to be one. We will begin to contribute to Justice Forward regularly and we would urge other Houstonians to do the same.
Robin Converse, Houston
Devon Anderson demonstrates just how important it is to elect leaders who are not ideological zealots. Anderson’s willingness to open her mind to treatment for drug offenders instead of incarceration has undoubtedly improved or saved the lives of thousands of addicts and helped blaze the trail toward more enlightened public policy.
Anderson’s willingness to share her personal story about her battle with alcohol is admirable. Alcoholism is an affliction that seems to disproportionately affect the legal profession. Her success is a beautiful example for her peers.
Congratulations to Anderson on her sobriety and her enlightenment.
Rand Nolen, Houston