Mutual respect is better than division

People need to have good hearts. A letter to the editor on Sept. 29, 2016 caught my attention. It shows how divided people have become. A gentleman remarked about “police profiling,” perhaps without recognizing he was profiling behaviors of others based upon visual clues. He identified himself as “African-American” rather than “an American.” He had already placed himself into a “propaganda box” that divides people into little groups. Groups that can be, and are, manipulated by corrupt politicians.

I attempt to meet with law enforcement, fire fighters, and military personnel to thank them for their service to our country. I want them to recognize and know me as a friend. If ever there is a problem, I want them to know I will help them.

I believe the greatest problem for mankind is that we are genetically programmed to make quick decisions based on visual clues. Prior to perhaps 20,000 years ago, the majority of people who didn’t discriminate didn’t live long enough to procreate. Genetic programming is survival instinct, and interferes with our ability to judge people according to their reactions and respect of other people.

I have written several papers and stories with what I’ve learned. I attempt to treat all people with respect, and make friendships. I recognize the sad history of mankind, and recognize it must not be used to continue the abuses of the past. Individually, we all have a choice as to how we recognize and respect our fellow man.

It also makes me wonder (if I were cynical about our current government) why there is not much greater education about drugs and alcohol in the schools, and public service commercials on TV and radio? To what advantage is it for the government to have people addicted? What is the cost in lives and property due to impaired drivers?

Thomas Fancher

Moses Lake