LETTER TO THE EDITOR A HIGHER POWER
Donald R. Fox
Higher power has the final choice.
To the Editor:
Since Aug. 12, I have pondered an article by Rick Hammond titled “Artwork, flag-burning, recordings – Who’s to decide?” The comment ”Who’s to decide?” bothered me.
Indeed, who should decide? The thrust of the article, in my opinion, was too fatalistic for me, and I believe, for our country. We are now in the Middle East to protect our national interests. We understand that as a nation, we must guard our interests. This nation was founded and established under general Judeo-Christian principles. Our forefathers never envisioned the gross immorality and profanity that are prevailing today. Mr. Hammond, let’s protect our “national interests.” Let’s not self-destruct from within. It’s a paradox to have such righteous national zeal as we are showing in the Middle East crisis and show no interest in our moral, ethical heritage here at home.
I would like to suggest that morality can and must be legislated. The word “moral” means the capability of making the distinction between right and wrong in conduct. Are there rights and wrongs? How do we determine what is right and wrong? Who’s to decide? Is there a “law giver?” Why don’t we just take words like profanity out of our vocabulary since no one can decide what’s profane? “Moral and ethical behavior has its roots in antiquity and has been a matter of concern from the earliest days of human civilization. Rules and standards of laws have existed in every culture in one form or another for the purpose of regulating human behavior…” (Quote from “Leadership”, USASMC, Fort Bliss, Texas, 1982). We hear a lot about “our freedoms”; do we ever hear about “our obligations”? Let’s not self destroy under the “mask” of freedom to “do your own thing.” I love this country and our heritage too much to see it self-destruct by people who think freedom means no censorship, no guidance, no standards, and no nothing. God help us if we do not understand “who’s to decide.”
Instead of articles that tickle the pseudo-intellect, “do your own thing” crowd, let’s write about positive, moral/ethical standards that will enhance, make our nation strong within. History proves that weak morale destroys nations. Mr. Hammond, there is much more at stake here than First Amendment rhetoric. Can we survive the way we are going? Do you reckon George Washington, and other founders would side with Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas, the “anything goes” crowd? I think not.
As I was ready to conclude this letter, another fatalistic opinion was printed, Aug. 23, Jeff Spencer. Mr. Spencer, if you think that those of us that want higher morality will, “whisk” you off to Alaska, etc., you know nothing about Christianity. Start reading the New Testament! You mention, “inherent rights as American citizens.” Yes, that is my point also. Jeff, check out our heritage. Was this trend of “anything goes” envisioned by our forefathers? Be honest now!
I am a realist. I spent over 36 years in the military (now retired). I have seen a great part of the world. Jeff, a better world starts with me! Why is it wrong to want a better world, higher morality? You say, “Change the channel.” Sir, there may come a time (fast approaching) when we don’t have a channel to change. Even in some “family type programs”, mild profanity is used. You reckon it will graduate as time goes by? Yes, if the fatalist has his way. I pray we don’t fall unto past history as stated in Judges 21:25: “In those days where was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his one eyes.”
Mr. Hammond, Mr. Spencer, I know who is to decide. Deep down, sirs, don’t you also?
Donald R. Fox
Saltillo, Mississippi
NOTE: The Tupelo Daily Journal published this letter on 30 August 1990.