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Keep religion out of government
When I was growing up, I was taught that religion was a private matter. I still feel that way. What religion I belong to, what goes on between God and me, is nobody’s business but my own.
I am extremely uncomfortable when I go to public events that are not religious in nature and there is a public prayer. Government institutions are not religious. If you feel you must pray for your representatives or that God will bless your meetings, please do so before you go. If you feel offended that I do not pray with you, try to remember that I feel it is inappropriate.
I have heard candidates say we need to get back to “Christian values” or institute “Christian values in government.” While the majority of people in this country are Christian, does that mean the other religions in this country have no values?
I would much rather hear candidates talk about “American values” – that we are free to worship or not to worship as we please; that life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are still alive and well. I fear that if we institute religious values in government we will no longer be a free nation.
FLOYCE WATTSON
Wichita
No clear meaning
There are a few words that are commonly used in political discussion that I think should be stricken from the language. The reason is that they have no clear meaning and, therefore, do not add clarity to the political discussion. My list, as of now, consists of: conservative, liberal, left wing, right wing, capitalist, democracy, extremist, radical, fanatic, bigot, greed, hater, rights and fair.
GORDON BAKKEN
Wichita
Don’t deport
Why is the government deporting people who are coming here for a better life? The people are migrating here because they see hope here and believe the United States will change their lives for the better. These immigrants should be given a chance to live here.
THALIA MENDEZ
Wichita
Show respect
One of my first jobs was in a law firm. An old couple came in one day for their appointment. A young attorney was abrupt and rude when he came to greet them.
The senior partner came from his office, brushed the young man aside, introduced himself to the couple, shook hands and took them into his office. When they left, he walked them to the door.
The partner then called for everybody to come to the reception area. He said that most people only come to a law office once or twice in their lives, and it usually has something to do with death – to make a will or probate an estate. When they came to this office, he said, he wanted them treated with dignity and respect.
I wish all professionals had that attitude for their clients. This partner was always respected in his professional community, which is more than I can say for a lot of people with Esq., DDS, MD, DVM or Ph.D. after their names.
PAM EDWARDS
Wichita
Be careful online
I support the “Wonder Who’s Watching?” campaign by Wichita Northwest High School students Alex Wespi, Taryn Thomas and Broc Cramer (“Online safety push targets kids,” May 28 Local & State).
Time and time again we hear stories on the news and at school about kids and teens who commit suicide because they are victims of cyberbullying. What one person might think of as a practical joke is a stab in the heart to another. It is crucial for students to learn how to differentiate between a joke and an offensive comment.
It amazes me that children in elementary school already have cellphones and access to social-networking websites. This gives them early exposure to cyberbullying and talking to strangers via the Internet. They need to be educated in how to handle strangers who start speaking to them on networking sites or in anonymous e-mails.
MISHA NAZIR
Wichita
