LETTERS: WE MUST RESPECT OTHERS' VIEWS

To the editor:

Remember how we once tried our parents' patience to the point they felt obliged to punish us? Perhaps punishment was only in the form of some denial or privilege.

From a scowling look to a slap on the hand with a ruler, teachers have been trying to remedy this situation. At times in school a frustrated teacher would send a misbehaving student to the principal's office (a higher authority). A parent or teacher gave us a task when we found unpleasant. Possibly it was only minor, but to us it seemed severe and possibly unjustified.

The purpose was to help us to see our error and help us amend our ways. Punishment is not meant to harm, but rather to correct an unfortunate situation and develop a more harmonious relationship in our society.

Our criminal-justice system has been struggling with this problem since the beginning. Our jails are overcrowded.

Throughout history humanity has been trying to solve this problem, to raise human relationship to a higher level. We are shocked at times by the amount of money required to help us develop a more civilized society where there is respect, trust and honor. Our parents, our schools, churches and other civic organizations are seemingly struggling to find realistic solutions to the problem of better human relationships so that our society can become more civilized and congenial.

There is a fear that someone might try to interject the word "religious," but history has shown that some of the worst misunderstandings in history have been caused by religious differences. It is up to each and every one of us to try to be as understanding and respectful of others and their viewpoints if we are ever to achieve the kind of harmony which will bring peace and satisfaction to a weary world.

IVAN NOTHDURFT

Cape Girardeau