Dear editor:
I read with interest the comments made by Mr. Gorham. I agree that the items he mentioned are important. However, the items he mentioned, such as the Majestic Hotel, the energy costs, the trade bill, somewhat excessive expense reimbursements and the criminal justice system have also been the subject of many letters. The paper has, in my opinion, done a good job of presenting many views on many subjects. We do not all agree on what is important and what is somewhat mundane.
We are all at the mercy of our elected officials. Their decisions impact our lives on a daily basis. I happen to believe that the basic philosophy and beliefs of those officials are important because those are at the core of their decision making. Those that understand the need to use common sense and solid reasoning will make better decisions. In my letters I have always stressed the necessity of using actual facts. I have opposed those who base their decisions on religious grounds. We have seen the absurdity of such reasoning. Many political figures have chosen to spend their time concentrating on hot-button issues, such as abortion, gay marriage, etc., while obfuscating their positions on items that really matter.
Recent events concerning the Confederate flag, gay marriage and the environment have dominated the news. These subjects have been the subject of intense debate and reflect the philosophy and beliefs of our elected officials. I happen to think that their positions on these issues have a great impact on the lives of all of us. To discuss such topics is just as important as complaining about local problems. I was extremely gratified by the magnificent opinion presented by Justice Kennedy on the gay marriage issue. That was a necessary and important issue for the advancement of individual rights.
About the only thing that we humans have much control over are our thoughts and concepts of life. How we feel determines what course of action we may take. I think it is important that our view of life is coherent and provides a sustainable path during our journey through life. I believe that it is extremely important that we advance the study of science and how it can improve our chances of survival. We need rational minds and ideas to move forward. Discussing such issues is certainly not a waste of space.
I love the old Hindu proverb:
"There are hundreds of paths up the Mountain, all leading in the same direction, so it doesn't matter which path you take. The only one wasting time is the one who runs around, telling everyone that his or her path is wrong."
It is a strange, strange world, Master Jack.
Mike Nunn
Hot Springs
Editorial on 07/01/2015