Just An Opinion

To the Editor,

In a column such as this, where anyone is free to express his/her opinion about any issue, we can submit a letter that publicly states our personal thoughts and feelings. Another reader, having some interest in the same subject, may then give support, or take exception to, that opinion. I would contend that there is value in this process, and I thank The Bee for offering such a forum.

What’s the value, you might ask? When someone responds to a question, be it political, social, religious or otherwise, the reader(s) are given, at least, two viewpoints on that issue. It may parallel a debate, a “point/counterpoint” dialogue, or simply, two different thoughts on the same subject, E.G., I often disagree with William F. Buckley, Jr (though, just for the record, I do not consider myself on an intellectual level with him). I am aware that his “Firing Line” approach to multiple issues involves his in-depth research and uncanny ability to defend either side of most issues. Some of this, admittedly, stems from his strength as a longtime debater. The study of “Rhetoric” (even though the term has been maligned in social intercourse) involves many of the argument and discussion techniques upon which people such as Buckley have built a “reputation for disputation” (an idiom just now coined, although you might want to change that).

We have all heard it said: “I will discuss anything except religion or politics.” When we agree with such a philosophy, I suggest that we are cheating others of a viewpoint that may prove most helpful to them at some time in the future. Politics and religion are two of the foundations of a healthy body-mind-spirit integrity. Secondly, we are impeding ourselves from gaining additional information from another that may challenge, or further solidify, our very own positions. None of us are infallible! Be not afraid to express your opinion. No one can hurt you. Of course, that’s just my opinion!

The Rev. Leo McIlrath

Corpus Christi: a catholic community

13 Sugarloaf Road, Sandy Hook                                      July 5, 2000