Letters to the Editor for July 10, 2009

Non-Christian not same as godless

To the editor:

I can’t say that I have specifically read or heard elected officials comment, “this country is no longer a Christian nation,” but I do feel compelled to reply to Preston Wright’s letter.

Importantly, since you are speaking of this nation, the First Amendment declares, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof ...”

Many emigrants who came to this continent did so in desperation, unwilling any longer to have to follow the religion that a king or tyrant had imposed upon them. Freedom of religion — the right to believe and live in the way you know you must, to be true to your conscience, which is the voice of your Creator — was and is of the utmost importance. It is beyond sad that many of these people, my ancestors included, did not respect, for example, the beliefs of the indigenous peoples who long lived here.

Being non-Christian, Mr. Wright, is not necessarily God-less. I am among numerous non-Christians who virtually live by the teachings of Jesus of Nazareth because it is an ethical way to live. I continuously wonder how professed Christians can support the military. One can also serve by: turning off the television to think and find entertainment for one’s self; considering all children and the generations by one’s actions; doing good works; being conservative with resources and liberal in acceptance of others. 

Linda Bergeron

Halfway

Councilors deserve our thanks

To the editor:

I write with an attitude of gratitude.

My thanks to Gus Aschim for writing to remind us that Beverly Calder and Dennis Dorrah operate valuable retail businesses in our community (July 3). It is a service to us all, the way they support our daily lives and promote Baker City. On top of that, they take the extra time and devote the extra effort to serve as members of the City Council. They deserve our thanks and appreciation. 

And I offer additional thanks for the way the City Council recently lived up to its public trust and civic duty by removing the city manager.

At times, it may seem easier to overlook or deny a problem, especially when there are possible negative consequences from taking action. But a festering problem must be faced sooner or later. In reading and listening to the thoughtful comments of Councilors Bonebrake, Button and Calder, I understand the pain they felt in reaching their difficult decision. And I also understand how that decision was regrettably inevitable, given the circumstances.

I’m most grateful.

Marshall McComb

Baker City