Life supersedes bad choice

Hannah Camyn’s letter (“Women free to choose,” May 29) would have infuriated my mother, who died in 2007 and was a strong supporter for the rights of the unborn.

In a July 1981 excerpt from a letter to The Spokesman-Review, Eleanor wrote, “I am sick to death of that worn-out expression the pro-abortionists use that a woman has control over her own body.” She continued, “Insofar as life and death are concerned no, you do not! You would be restrained from attempting to slash your wrists, take pills, jump off a bridge or use other measures to end your life. Infinitely more horrible to my mind is the taking of another’s human life, the life of a defenseless being who is as entitled to life as you are.”

Notice also Eleanor referred to the opposition as pro-abortionists. Her reference was absolutely correct as the fallacy of the pro-choice label can refer to making any choice you want.

Finally, the phrase, “If you’re against abortion, don’t have one” equals saying, “If you don’t like child abuse, don’t abuse your child but allow others to do it if they wish.”

Patrick Kirlin

Spokane Valley

Politicians’ pensions next

I’m sure it pained the elected officials of both San Diego and San Jose to restructure and cut the pensions for public employees, but not for the reason you may think. When the voters approved the measure, they sent a clear signal to all municipalities to follow them, and they will if it withstands a legal challenge.

Then I hope the eye of the people will refocus on the elected officials, both state and federal, and their lucrative salaries, health care plans and pension plans.

If we the people are made to live on less and retire on less, then why not the politicians who “feel our pain” but can’t quite reach out and join us unless we force them to!

James Youngman

Millwood