BLAME THE CHOICES, NOT OUR SOCIETY

Re: "Out of treatment, back on the street," Jan. 26.

Oliver Petersen describes getting repeated help for his heroin
addiction only to be "disappointed again and again." I'm unclear if
Petersen is disappointed in himself or the rest of society for not
giving him free or cheap housing.

After completing his treatment in Mission, Petersen returned to
Victoria, one of the least affordable cities in Canada. Is this smart
for someone of limited means?

While at Streetlink and the Salvation Army, was it a requirement to
hang around with the "drug addicts and criminals" there? I'm guessing no.

"My family and much loved ones were starting to trust me again."
Apparently not enough to offer him a place to stay.

"It wasn't long at all before I using drugs again." Who forced
Petersen to start again? Identify yourself.

"I was screwed again." Would it be more accurate to say, "I screwed up again?"

"Now I'm in jail for a breach of my conditional sentencing order."
What condition did he breach and why?

"Start housing people who want help, or the problems of drugs,
homelessness and criminal activity will only get worse." Ah yes, the
vague threat of extortion always earns my sympathy.

"I want a better life." Don't we all? However, most of us take
responsibility for ourselves and our actions and get on with it.

That last comment best sums up Petersen's attitude. It's all about
him. He's a victim despite 20 years(!) of poor lifestyle choices that
continue to this day. The rest of us are to blame for not providing for him.

Sorry, but Petersen's plea doesn't impress me.

Michael Laplante,

Saanich.