A call for unity
A call for unity
We are all united, not only in our basic needs (which would be clean, healthful and nourishing food, air and water, but also safe shelter, adequate clothing and useful education), but also in the simple fact that collectively we make a market from which some among us can profit.
We are joined collectively by mere circumstance, and it is because of this fact parts of our civilized society need to be organized for the purpose of providing opportunities and mutual benefits.
You would be mistaken to conclude any one entrepreneur is self-made because all inventions are a progression of advances by previous thinkers. Likewise, it is naive to think a free market will provide fairness, safety or reasonable distribution of productivity. One only need to read history and observe present global conditions.
John Begg
Pahoa
Enough stupidity
My favorite line from the movie “Forrest Gump” is: “Stupid is as stupid does.”
That quote accurately characterizes what the Thirty Meter Telescope debate has degenerated into. If people vandalized the fiber optic cable on Mauna Kea or vandalized other property, then they are stupid. Equally as stupid are the people who use race to criticize TMT opponents.
Adrienne Dey’s not-so-subtle letter to the editor, published Oct. 20, is a prime example of how the discussion on both sides has degenerated into an exhibition of stupidity.
One of the voices drowned out in this tsunami of stupidity is that of Kealoha Pisciotta. I always have admired her sincerity and the intelligent and respectful way she has expressed her opinion. If more people in positions of authority listened to her from the beginning and had taken her concerns to heart, many of the land-use and cultural issues could have been resolved.
The point of this letter is to tell people on all sides of this issue that I refuse to support or listen to any more stupidity from anyone who resorts to violence, criminal activity or inflames racial prejudice. There are many other people like me who do not appreciate how this important debate has devolved into the old, hateful prejudices we fought so hard to overcome just two generations ago.
It is time we take back the discussion from people more interested in name-calling, racial prejudice or criminal acts. Stop donating money, stop supporting, reading, listening, blocking or “unfriend” anyone who promotes any of these stupid acts.
Because, “Stupid is as stupid does.”
Ted H.S. Hong
Hilo