LETTERS: Should pass civility test

One of my little pleasures is waking up in the morning to the Coeur d’Alene Press on my door step. After reading the front page and “Weather Gems,” I head to the Op-Ed page. What I am reading in the “Readers Write” section has become increasingly disturbing. 

It is suggested that the “Readers Write” section of your Op-Ed page be modified. Seemingly more and more of the reader’s submissions are a means by which to spew bile. The latest is the rambling, to the ridiculous, letter from a lady regarding a disagreeable fellow she encountered at a function who obviously and firmly disagreed with her political position. (Among other things). From what can be gleaned from the ramblings, the “offending party” did not mention his political party, however, and unfortunately she “assumed” that because of his views he must be of a certain political party.

There is always at least two sides to a story and since this contributor went to great lengths to besmirch this person, my natural investigative instincts kicked in. This lady is obviously very sensitive regarding her political position and has yet come to realize that politics and religion are two subjects to be avoided at gatherings where the guests are mixed and unknown. She then used your paper to obviously further her political agenda. As an Independent, I find most politicians to be lacking, and in the words of Mark Twain, “I never voted for someone, always voted against someone.” I say this to dispel any notion that I have a political ax to grind. 

I would suggest that first, you limit the letters to 200 words. I’m certain there are other readers who would like their moment and must wait for a subsequent edition before being published. The word limit would encourage writers to be concise in their submissions. Second, and most important, the letters should be edited for hateful diatribe. This is not a First Amendment issue as I’m certain some will bemoan.  

The Coeur d’Alene Press is a business and you have the absolute right to print or not print whatever you like. Since it seems some contributors lack civility in their submissions, the Coeur d’Alene Press should send these back to the writer for a “re-write.”

RON BOUDREAUX

Coeur d’Alene