The Duc Pond

I sent my letter to The Press. It isn’t everything I wanted to say (no mention of these bastards being fascists in my final version) nor is it as well-written as I would like, but this ain’t the New York Times. I bet it’ll get printed. I compared its length with other letters submitted to The Press and it seems to be in line (around 140 words).

It is deeply disturbing to me that so many letter writers have been looking to silence those who are exercising their American right to voice an opinion. As much as I wouldn’t recommend it, it’s fine to hate those who don’t share your views or the views of the government. It’s another matter to have them quieted or punished for speaking out.

Those who would call for such action are far more anti-American than the people they criticize. Clearly these critics have never read the numerous 18th century American documents that make the case for freedom, or if they have read them, they clearly have no respect for the ideas the nation’s founders held so dear.

It’s easy to have a misplaced view of patriotism in this difficult time, but we have to remember that infringing on freedom will not make this country a better place.

I also noted in today’s paper that a letter writer addressed all this French-bashing that has permeated American culture lately. It’s refreshing to see someone else agreeing that this is ridiculous and getting out of hand. Even the French Quarter in New Orleans is getting harrassed. It’s ludicrous and it’s childish. I expect more from grown people.