LETTERS

Editor,

Chaplain Jack Driscoll’s thoughtful comments on my article “President Al Gore’s First Inaugural Address” (On My Mind, Atención October 26), with all respect, appear to miss the point I was making in my piece. For the record, I do not consider myself an atheist—with apologies to many of my atheist friends. But I certainly do not believe there is such a thing as a judging and punishing God. Chaplain Driscoll does, along with, as he says, “billions of people around the world.” Alas, it is because so many people persist in imagining God as a wrathful judge—with my “God” against your “God”—that has encouraged the world’s drift into the “anarchy” that the chaplain describes and decries.

“God” does not punish us for our wrongdoings against each other; we punish ourselves by the universal spiritual law of karma. Even the teacher Jesus was convinced of that, which is why he cautioned his students always and everywhere to do good unto others. 

I have not, as Chaplain Driscoll claims, “chosen to reject the reality of a Supreme God.” Far from it. I believe there not only is a God, but that each of us can enjoy a deep personal connection with It. Thus connected, we can walk a personal spiritual path with great integrity and meaning. We are growing up as a species and beginning to understand that each of us can find God on our own, without the help of priests, ministers, rabbis, mullahs, gurus...or, for that matter, chaplains. 

Joseph Dispenza

Editor,

I feel that it is somewhat mean-spirited for Atención to print the following comment concerning the Wool and Brass fair…“Actually a minor crafts fair of mostly touristy artesania.” Actually the fair has many stalls worth visiting...artisans come from all over the country and sell a wide variety of merchandise. I, for one, never come away empty-handed. Last year a vendor from Chiapas had a fossilized lobster....to quote Rachael Ray...“How cool is that?” Artisans need all the help they can get and I hope readers will not be discouraged from attending this year. I know that Joseph Harmes meant no harm (no pun intended) and did not expect his opinion to be printed in Atención the week before the event. 

Jennifer Haas

Editor,

I am the treasurer of the Biblioteca Pública and chairman of a committee that is looking at ways to increase income so that we can continue upgrading the building’s infrastructure and continue increasing funds for scholarships. Right now we are looking to see if we can supplement the House & Garden Tour in any way.

Listening to the music before the tour on Sunday, and all last week in email, I was barraged with accusations that the Biblioteca board is trying to change the House & Garden tour in some way. I would like to end the rumors. The Biblioteca board is not considering any change to the way the House & Garden Tour is conducted, nor has it in the two years I have served, nor is the committee I am heading. We are simply looking for additional revenue sources. If a reader hears any statement of other intent, please correct the person saying it.

The tour last Sunday was completely enjoyed by all participants. We viewed three wonderful homes, and the volunteers helping out were hospitable and professional. Mort, the conductor on my bus, gave a brief history and tips about the area that would help any tourist enjoy their visit more. What’s to change about any of that?

The committee report about the project area that includes the House & Garden Tour will be given at the next board meeting, Friday, November 30, at 11am. If you are interested, please come. All members are encouraged to attend these meetings.

Thank you, 

Ken Rowland 
(rowlandken@hotmail.com )