Letter to the Editor

The gift of free speech

Friday, April 20, 2007

Dear Editor,

Kirt & Readers,

I am writing in response to a letter by Kirt Matson. I would like to clarify that my previous letter is the only one I have written to any newspaper concerning the loss of an individual in Iraq. I have no "agenda."

I have the utmost respect for our brave forces, I believe they serve because they want to fulfill a rewarding role. I am so sorry if Randy's father finds my mail upsetting and am deeply hurt if that was the outcome. My intent was certainly not to add to the pain he must be feeling. But I cannot be silent for him.

The deaths of our soldiers do not bring peace, do not keep us safe and most of all, do not honour their supreme sacrifice. There are no WMDs, Saddam has been killed, the Iraqi people do not want us there, they had nothing to do with 9/11 ... so why are we still there?

I want to believe that my government here in the UK and yours in the USA, are to be trusted and are truly looking out for the welfare of their citizens … but, reality does not reflect this.

Change is only achievable if we speak out, as "we the people" against that which we feel is wrong. So Kirt, I am speaking out and "I want an end to the war in Iraq."

I make no apology for this. I am simply being a fellow human being with hopes and dreams; I respect yours Kirt and hope you will respect mine, even if you don't agree with them. I sincerely wish you well.

Finally, thank you so much to this honourable newspaper that gives the gift of free speech for which I am grateful.

Namaste,

Tina Louise

Founder - Arms Against War

Blackpool, England

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