We must be compassionate

To the editor:

I am responding to James Coleman's recent letter.

Mr. Coleman struck me as rather uncompassionate. I got to wondering if he is so lacking in compassion toward all of his fellow man.

It is understood that most all humans have at least one addiction, maybe more. There is addiction to tobacco, alcohol, sex, food, especially any processed sugar, and others. It is now recognized that sugar is more addictive than cocaine and heroin.

Now, sir, what success is there to breaking people from sugar addiction? We see obesity and diabetes on the rise, thanks to excess sugar in most peoples' diets.

Are you saying that there is a difference? I acknowledge that heroin kills much quicker, but any of the other addictions can kill as well.

Mankind must show compassion toward fellow humans for their individual weaknesses, not condemn them. We must show compassion to anyone who has any addiction.

Sir, addiction has always been with us, in whatever form.

Are you suggesting that we just condemn them and show them no love and compassion?

I do not believe that is what we are on this earth for.

Sincerely, 

Daniel E. Chase

Portland