Published on Friday, February 1, 2008

Columnist's statement is selfish

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Jeff Merkel’s Jan. 29 column "'Do-Gooders’ should not impose on others" is a statement of selfishness, not freedom.

When people rally against do-gooders, what do they want, evil-doers? The world already has far too many evil-doers and money-lovers.

If a person decides to smoke, he or she should be aware that that action not only affects him or her, but will influence others, as well. (How many people would be smoking if they had never seen anyone else do it?).

And what about their children, parents, pets? This is more than just about second-hand smoke. You need to be around and healthy enough to take care of others.

Swami Rama Tirtha said that doing good is his religion. Real happiness lies in serving others. Rather than rallying against do-gooders, Mr. Merkel should rally against those who make obscene profits promoting the deaths and suffering of others.

Arthur Shimkus
DeKalb resident