A letter from the editor

0 Comments | Insight on the News, March 25, 2002 | by Paul M. Rodriguez

Dear Readers,

Life, it seems to us, sometimes becomes a hodgepodge of unrelated events in the otherwise orderly world we strive to create. But despite occasional errant and even threatening rocks and shoals we manage to guide the keel through unknown waters.

What brings this to mind is the mix of stories inside: They are about current events but, looking both ways through the lens of history, they also are age-old stories about man's struggle to tame his environment, fill the larder and protect his homeland.

We think these stories also provide insight about the need to measure our endeavors by moral principles, guiding us not only as individuals but in our national policies.

Consider the cover story: It involves security of our aviation system. We hire men and women to protect us, and they carry the symbolic banner of our country even overseas. They are not tourists on holiday but representatives of America. Jokes aside, regardless of which branch of government, and regardless of where they travel in service, we must expect of them the highest standards in conduct and comportment.

Even American actors should take responsibility for their high profile to the extent that others are likely to think they represent us all. If they insist on giving aid and comfort to America's enemies they must be prepared to take the consequences.

An excerpt here from a just-published book by Henry and Erika Holzer is a reminder of consequences still felt by many who survived Vietnam. It shows why the Jane Fondas of this country must learn the difference between disagreement over policy and providing aid and comfort to an enemy killing and torturing our fellow Americans.

And don't miss Kenneth R. Timmerman's story in this issue, or Sheila R. Cherry's expose on EPA policies, reminding us of where so many good intentions lead when policy isn't grounded in respect for honesty.

Until next week then, God bless.

Paul M. Rodriguez