I have not gone out of my way to see the Mohammad cartoons, nor will I, but I don't agree with The Spectrum's editorial point-of-view about Professor Paul Kurtz and his decision to publish the cartoons ("Too late to the party," March 10). I am more fearful of living in a world that does not permit freedom of speech. Being ever mindful of the fact that with this freedom comes a great responsibility.
Violence is never a good response or answer to any action. Educated and spiritual people should know this and constrain themselves to act accordingly.
I would also like to remind those readers who did not see the Alternative Press in December of 2003 - basically, there was a picture of a monkey hanging on a cross on the front cover, a picture of Jesus on a credit card on the back cover, and all kinds of "slams" against Christianity in-between. Christians in western New York did not react in a violent fashion. Although, I did sent a letter to the editor expressing my opinion and exercising my right to freedom of speech without repercussions.
No sane person wants more war or discord in this world, but spiritual leaders and educated people need to lead by example - violence is never a good or acceptable answer.
Photo: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki
