Kudos to columnist

Dear editor:

Melinda Gassaway has done it again! Her column “Coping with the state of the world,” which appeared in The Sentinel-Record on April 26, reminded me of Garrison Keillor’s philosophy: “Powdermilk biscuits give shy people the strength to get up and do what needs to be done.” Symbolically, our “biscuits” are our inner resources and strength to be more accepting while listening to an opposing opinion. That’s what needs to be done. Disregard for differing opinions is the trend these days.

Frankly, my sense of humor is dragging a bit; my spontaneous laughter is subdued. My ruses to put aside my apprehension of the current state of affairs in our political world are sort of bedraggled, but I save my sanity by going back to the belief that hope is healthier than cynicism.

Many of us are concerned about the multiplying numbers of guns and places where guns are legally allowed, including schools, parking lots and churches, for example, and permits for those who unfortunately have diseases affecting the brain. Gun-toting people protest that their self-protection and their rights will be violated if they can’t have guns. They claim to be the silent majority.

Then, there is another silent majority, one that fears to speak out because of possible loud contempt. Those who don’t carry guns have rights, too. At least, we thought we did long ago. We all have the right to feel safe in public places and at home. If our society insists on carrying guns, a course in civility and anger management should be mandatory in our schools. Perhaps licenses to carry should require the same course of study.

Too many of the letters to the editor express disdain for others’ religions and they argue about whose interpretation of the Bible is the only one and Bible verses that contradict each other. Pray, what happened to the concept of freedom of religion? I think that freedom is admirable and must be valued. One letter indicated that people who have committed crimes “find God” while incarcerated. That sounds judgmental and without proof. Although they are still guilty of their crimes on society, it could be that they were never introduced to God until prison. With good luck, God will still be with them when they leave prison.

“Make America Great Again?” If we were to remember our pledge to the United States: “one nation, indivisible,” we just might consider being civil, well-mannered and respectful. That would be a wholesome start to working together to heal our nation, once upon a time recognized as a rational, powerful country. Bring back regard for others!

May peace be within you.

Barbara Thexton Hot Springs