Lott humilated himself; now he needs forgiveness

To the editor:

The public has been subjected to the vitriol of the mob out for Trent Lott's job. The words spoken by Lott were unfortunately thoughtless and hurt a lot of people. He has apologized numerous times. Why can't people forgive him and go on with life? It is a mistake to fire this man at a time when our country may have to go to war. Our republic needs his experience in this time of danger.

It is unfortunate that our country in the past committed crimes against the black community. We must never forget so that we never return to that behavior again. To remember does not mean that we must participate in a mental and emotional lynching of every person who misspeaks. If we can't get beyond the past, our republic will remain divided. Mob rule will reign. The whole world now knows that Lott, a man who has served his constituents for over 20 years, has humiliated himself.

CHRISTINE E. STEPHENS

Cape Girardeau