A SENSE OF INSURMOUNTABLE HOPE

I am writing in response to an article published in the March 26
edition of The Journal entitled, "Different drug problem".

Re: A different kind of drug problem

I am writing in response to an article published in the March 26
edition of The Journal entitled, "Different drug problem". I believe
as we look at the problems facing modern society, it is important to
view those problems in a modern context. For instance, due to
technology, media, and globalization we are now able to see and hear
almost anything, almost instantly. With sensationalism and a lack of
critical thinking, it is easy for individuals to believe that immense
problems and immoral epidemics exist, when in fact they are imagined.

The anonymous author of the aforementioned article recalled being
"drug" to church when he/she was little, and that forcing a child to
listen to what is essentially superstition, somehow made him/her a
better person. This is, of course, complete and utter nonsense. The
church, in my humble view, has created more desperation and hardship
than it has prevented. A few examples of this would be the Crusades,
in which many thousands were murdered, Residential Schools,
corruption, sexual abuse scandals, and their oppressive policies in
regard to women and homosexuals.

The article goes on to make mention of how "back then" children, and
adults, generally did not accept payment for helping others and being
neighbourly. Unfortunately, I would agree that, in this regard, things
have changed. Due to conservative policies and an emergence of extreme
Darwinian capitalism in North America, children, teenagers, and adults
can no longer afford to be neighbourly. Conservative governments
continue to cut funding and services to the young, women's groups, the
working poor, and seniors. Living pay cheque to pay cheque in an
ever-increasing corporate world leaves little room for goodwill.

The article also suggests that violence, disobedience, and drug use
are much more widespread today than in the past. This suggestion is
entirely outlandish. For example, the British and Chinese fought two
wars, TWO wars, over a drug called opium in the 1800s. What about
violence? We all remember history's two most devastating events in
terms of death, aggression, and violence don't we? They are called the
First World War, and the Second World War, respectively. With
disobedience, people are often concerned about gang activity today. So
concerned, in fact, that it is easy to forget names such as Al Capone,
Machine Gun Kelly, Ma Barker, John Dillinger, John "Dapper Don" Gotti,
Bonnie and Clyde, George "Baby Face" Nelson, and I could go on. In a
relatively short letter I have shown that society today is no worse,
scary, or problematic than it has ever been. In fact, the world is
probably a better place today than in any other historical period. I
applaud today's parents and children who are doing the best they can.
When I look at the things we have accomplished, it gives me a sense of
insurmountable hope for mankind.

Kent E. Peterson,

White Fox, SK