CARING FOR SOCIETY IS CURE FOR DRUG WOES

Re: "We can't ignore street addiction issues forever," column, July 21.

Again, Jody Paterson presents a reality few of us comprehend, but
just as important, a challenge that drives us to the wall. "There's a
firestorm coming, and somebody's going to have to do something about it."

What "something" means is only hinted at: "family support. A place to
live. A sense of belonging ..." to name a few.

But wait! Those are exactly what all of us need. Could it be that the
solutions are what constitute a compassionate, caring community?

Nothing in the list about the need to make a profit, or to get ahead
of the other guy, or to win at all costs, just plain, ordinary,
social democratic values.

And attitudes that lead us to look out for others, especially the
most vulnerable and socially challenged.

Unfortunately, the current ideological straitjacket of the people in
power is the direct opposite.

They want us to believe that if people cannot compete in our
market-driven economy they deserve what they get.

There are options, and it takes discerning people like Paterson to
help us find a way out of our malaise.

Dale Perkins,

Victoria.