Two young boys in as many weeks have been in the news who harbor so much anger toward the world that they acted to commit crimes against society, something quite common these days.
One was the 18-year-old Clearwater boy who admitting breaking out the window with the image of the Virgin Mary. The other was the 14-year-old Largo boy who police say threatened to blow up Largo Middle School in a re-enactment of the Columbine massacre.
How can such young people muster up so much anger toward the world? What has happened in their short lives that could possibly trigger this sinister mentality?
I don't think one has to be a rocket scientist to come to grips with the fact that all of society is somewhat to blame for allowing it to come to this. The moral fiber of our nation has come under attack through a steady decline in morals and godly standards due to complacency and apathy. Our liberal outlook on sexuality; the dismantling of the family unit through divorce; the loss of trust and confidence in leaders due to scandals in government, corporations and churches all have forced each to turn to his own way and do what is right according to his own eyes, as the self-indulgent pursuit of pleasure has become the main focus in life.
I echo the words of Macbeth: "The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves that we are underlings." Thus society reaps what it has sown. The planting of good seeds in bad soil.
-- Len Vivolo, Clearwater
To err is human; to forgive, divine
Re: A test of two faiths, story, May 16.
I will admit that it broke my heart when I heard the news about the destruction of the image of "Our Lady of Clearwater." Nevertheless, "Love one another" and "Forgive and you will be forgiven" are the immutable principles by which Christians live.
People are more important than things. My heart goes out to this young man, and he will be in my prayers.
-- Susan Kruger, North Palm Beach
Breaking of window was "a supernatural event'
Re: A test of two faiths, story, May 16.
Early on when I read the news of the desecrated image of the Virgin Mary, I was devastated. Then I thought, this has happened to alert us Catholics who do not practice our faith sincerely. If it is an awakening, I thank God.
Later, reading of the fate of the boy who broke the window depicting the face of the virgin, I concluded that it was a supernatural event. The window was replaced with plain glass, almost an affront to we who cherished this vision, this icon. The mystery of faith is revealed in this horrible yet symbolic event. The virgin is remembered again - perhaps even greater than by the original vision.
The boy needs instruction. I pray he will adhere to the law at all times.
-- Enes Chianese, Clearwater
Clearwater Beach traffic improves by one car, at least
We always have a household filled with company during the winter months, and one of our favorite tour-guide spots is Clearwater Beach, where we always would spend the day.
No more - not since the traffic circle fiasco. Not since we see bumper-to-bumper, and usually stalled, traffic. Even our guests from Europe know Clearwater Beach's fantastic reputation; however, we explained the steady decline in ease of accessibility and aborted the beach trip.
I've boycotted Clearwater Beach until such time as a normal, steady flow of traffic is on the scene. And the good news? We no longer need to spend that $100 a day treating our guests. So much for the tourism dollar!
-- Myrna B. O'Sullivan, Dunedin
Slow drivers should mind others' right to go faster
In response to recent letters concerning traffic in the area, one major problem I notice is elderly people and out-of-towners driving well below the speed limit in the middle and left lanes of major roads. People who want to do the speed limit and keep up with the flow of traffic have to find a way to get around them because they are too stubborn to get over.
It is their right to drive below the speed limit, but it is also my right to want to drive at the speed limit. If you choose to drive slower, that is your prerogative, but get over into the right lane so people can pass and keep the flow of traffic moving. This would alleviate many of our traffic problems.
-- Francis Koch, Largo
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