Decatur, Ala. | Saturday, May 25, 2013
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letter to the editor
Let’s talk about issues with respect

To The Daily: I am so disheartened by the climate pervading our news writers and commentators when confronted with a difference of opinion. When this difference is reported and hyped, many people are affected and immediately take sides. This contentious tone seems to be becoming the rule so much of the time.

These comments are in response to the July 26 column by Dana Milbank concerning comments made in an interview with the Biblical Recorder by Dan Cathy, president of Chick-fil-A. When asked a question during an interview, Mr. Cathy expressed his views on gay marriage, and then further stated that he supported traditional marriage and family. He did not buy time on TV, take out a newspaper ad, suggest customers fill out a questionnaire in order to be served, or otherwise press his views on anyone. He answered the interviewer’s question.

But here is what Milbank said: “This implied that gay people and divorced people had no business eating at Chick-fil-A.” And the battle begins.

Where is our reasonableness to address such differences with an agree to disagree attitude? There is no good reason to attack those who think differently. Can’t we discuss or choose not to discuss issues that are volatile with respect for each other and without attributing meaning that is not clearly stated by the speaker? Yes, this writer’s piece was on the Opinion page; but he threw it out there as fact and stirred the contentious pot.

Sharon Province

Hartselle

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Comments
4 comments on this item

The news media has sold out their obligation to objectively report the news and have been seduced by their liberal university mentors who hate this country....

A difference of opinion isn't the so-called new's job....

Historically, the news media, whether TV reporters or newspaper columnists/editors have always tried to capture viewers/readers eyes with “sensationalism”. This case is no different – they’re stirring the proverbial contention pot, hoping for an influx of opinions to bring their story to the forefront. Stories sell – good or bad – truths, half truths and blatant lies. Bottom line: The person that interviewed Dan Cathy was not concerned about his perspective with regard to homosexuality, or further, his life and business; he was only entertaining the notion of fame at another person’s expense.

I agree wholeheartedly with Sharon Province. It is ridiculous that the "opinion" was stated as fact. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. I do believe that homosexuality is a sin. I know I am inviting bad comments by my opinion but let me state this. I have very good friends that are gay. I love them like brothers and sisters although I disagree with their lifestyle. We agree to disagree and still love each other regardless. More people need to stop "fighting over these issues and agree to disagree without cause hard feelings, hatred and more. It is just ridiculous. We all have different minds, lives and opinions to name a few things. "Love thy neighbor as thyself". There is no need for the bickering and hatred being presented. No matter what views Mr. Cathy has I love Chic-fil-A and will continue to eat there not because of anyones opinion but because the food is good. You could go to any business and ask opinions and start a ruckus. At least Mr. Cathy was honest about his views instead of either lying or "running around" the question. It is his belief and not all of Chic-fil-A employees beliefs. We have a right to state our beliefs and should not be afraid to express them. There was no hatred expressed by Mr. Cathy only a belief stated. What is wrong with that? Homosexuals disagree with a lot of heterosexual beliefs. Where is the argument there? Can we not express our opinions without fighting? Everyone alive has different views of all subjects. Respect others opinions even if you don't agree. There was no "gay bashing" going on, just an opinion stated. It was EVERYONE'S right to protest but why protest. The food is the basis of whether you eat there or not. Not the opinion of ONE man. I am sorry of homosexual's were offended and believe that was not the intent of Mr. Cathy.

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Memorial Day Skating Exhibition
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Annunciation of The Lord Catholic Church
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Morgan County Girls Basketball Camp
Priceville High School
8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Morgan County Girls Basketball Camp
Priceville High School
8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
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Pickwick Belle Riverboat
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Morgan County Girls Basketball Camp
Priceville High School
8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
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