Opinion bashing new, unhealthy pastime
by Nick Nance, managing editor

    I have recently become tired of how people treat the opinions of others.

   I have noticed over the last few years how common it is for people to bash opinions different from their own.

   Obviously, people will have different opinions. I expect to meet people who do not have the same religious beliefs.

   I know that my background will be different from others. I accept that and expect it.

   What is unacceptable to me is when I see someone bashed or referred to in negative terms because his or her opinion is different. These baseless attacks are led by ignorance.

   One of the basic ideas our country was founded on ceases to exist when a different view is expressed.

   Freedom of speech was established to ensure all would have a voice in how the government was operated. Since then, we have expanded that foundation and extended that freedom to those who possess the ability to express their opinion.

   Our strength as a society and a nation depends on acceptance of each other.

   Somewhere along the way, we have forgotten this or are just too lazy to do it.

   Accepting someone for who and what they are is not easy. It might be difficult at times. But it is a necessity for us all.

   I have always been an open-minded and opinionated person. I know I will encounter people who do not possess the same ideas and thoughts.
We are individuals and must allow each other to be just that, an individual.

   I have read numerous letters to the editor in the Star-Telegram. Many of them are not fact oriented. They merely attack the view the author of an article has taken. I find this attack unacceptable.

   The authors of these articles put their opinions to print and have the courage to do so, knowing not everyone will agree.

   Those who do not agree often revert to name-calling. I believe this is done because the person disagreeing does not possess the ability to state his or her point properly without the senseless name-calling.

   People are going to have different opinions. We have all heard the appropriate phrase to describe this. However, when it comes to printed opinions, this fact is forgotten.

   A new generation is entering the workplace. Most of these young people have yet to have anyone interested in their opinion. I believe this is because they have witnessed society crucify those who take a chance and share their opinions.

   Opinions should be embraced, shared but, most of all, encouraged.