Dear Editor:
Savanna’s article stirred up some interesting thoughts and feelings. I understand the point she is making – it is valid. However, my initial reaction to her article is to question her reasoning, for she did exactly that which she argued against, for she stepped on my toes with writing that article, did she not, by sharing her beliefs, opinions, and voice?
Her message is more complex than its delivery – be careful.
For example, what should I do if my friend is planning to steal? What should I do if my friend starts taking hard drugs? Tolerate individuality? Be opened minded to the experience and what we can learn from it? Accept their decisions? What affect will this have on me or those around them? How will the individual decision affect the entire group?
If my friend has a truth that will improve and/or save my life, do I hope that my friend shares it with me? We just celebrated Martin Luther King’s message, which in deed, is a message and voice of reason and truth, stomping on the toes of individuality for the goodness of the group. For without his voice being heard, without toes being stepped on, would injustice and inequality still be tolerated?
Nelson Mandela and Ghandi’s stories are similar.
Let’s be careful that the pride of individuality doesn’t become our tallest stumbling block – it just might be. And more importantly, if we start accepting that which is not virtuous in the face of individuality, we may harm the collective group, as we see much in our world today.
Savanna’s point, to belong to a group and maintain relationships outside of one’s self, is difficult, for we are all complex organisms. It takes tremendous effort, love, understanding, respect, tolerance, courage, communication, standards, expectations, and forgiveness to be apart of a group – it is not easy.
In short, it is difficult to know what to do at times.
Again, keep up the good work. Keep us thinking through the discomfort of stepping on our toes, for at times it is through this discomfort that makes one become more aware – learn truth.
In short, I liked the article, but both sides of the argument must be provided, for without the head, you can’t have the tail.
—Paul Moss,
Salt Lake City
