Editor,
I am responding to Laura Valdez and her shameful outlook on society. Her commentary in the Jan. 31 edition of the Daily Lobo was nothing more than printed bitching. Her conclusions made no sense. They reflect how institutionalized people have become in facing life and its many challenges. It's much easier to blame society and other people for their problems instead of blaming themselves.
Having a "Black History Month" is in itself racist. Talk about having an "ugly mark" on the United States. What is next? Are we going to have a month devoted to every ethnic group that currently resides in the United States? I am all for that.
We would have to narrow the field down to only races that have been oppressed in some fashion. Oh wait, that is everyone. I have my own controversial idea. How about we get along, get over ourselves and make every month "American History Month." That sounds so much better, doesn't it?
Let me try to address some of Laura's concerns about our country. All the things Ms. Valdez said are false and she should know that. I totally agree with her assessment: she is negative and stuck in the past! The United States does offer liberty and justice for all. Things are much better. There is parity in our society.
Everyone has equal opportunity in this country but that does not mean equal outcome. Not everyone will be rich; that is just the nature of capitalism. If you want to go get some of that money, get off your butt and do something. Start a business. Go to work. Win the lottery. Invent something. Maybe you will get lucky and the riches will come rolling in. Don't blame people for being rich and successful; try to follow their example.
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Everyone has the opportunity to go to the same public schools I went to. You don't see me bitching about it. I made do with what I had, and I managed to succeed. Of course, it is laziness when people drop out. Why else would someone become a quitter? Ms. Valdez must be doing OK, she attends the same University that I do. Scholarships and programs are out there to help people, take advantage of them.
We are all victims of crime. Some of us choose to do something about it. Do whatever you have to do. There is no excuse for being around crime. The high number of prisoners is simple. They aren't in jail for no reason. Obviously they committed a crime; they really should stop doing that.
I have one vote, you have one vote. Elect whomever you want. You cannot complain if you do not vote. Not everyone I vote for is elected. Oh well, move on and hope for a better one next time.
Talking about lenses, maybe Laura should try to take off her own set. When she talks about seeing things "in a different light," she simply means seeing things in her light.
Quit whining!
Steve Determan
UNM student
