Non-Christians hardly as carefree as writer thinks

This is in response to the Dec. 16 letter from Ellie Mae Lambert titled, “Theory about non-Christians.”

In her letter, she indicates that non-Christians do not have the same kind of struggles as Christians. That is absolutely incorrect. She also indicates that the life of non-Christians is one big joy ride. That is also absolutely incorrect. In addition she indicates that non-Christians do not acknowledge the consequences of sin. Non-Christians may not use the word sin, but they do acknowledge the negative consequences of their actions and thus have the same struggles.

Muslims deal with the same struggles as Christians. Islam speaks about the “greater jihad”, the struggle against or within oneself. Making jihad is to struggle for something with determination, especially in the cause of God, such as confronting evil and wrongdoing.

Buddhists also deal with the same struggles as Christians. Buddhism speaks about three internal poisons; ignorance, greed, and anger. The way to struggle against these poisons is by following the Eight Fold Path including “right thought, right speech, and right action”.

Secular humanists (including atheists and agnostics) also deal with the same struggles as Christians. Humanists believe in the common moral decencies; altruism, integrity, honesty, truthfulness, and responsibility. Humanists struggle to cultivate ethics and moral excellence, both within themselves and in their communities.

To apply Ms. Lambert’s analogy, both Christians and non-Christians are wounded ducks.

— Roger Hull

China Grove

Where school money goes

Re: The front page article in the Salisbury Post on Dec. 14, “Budget cuts to school systems affect students every day”:

If you want some clues as to where, how and why money is short for the schools, anyone should check the following stories.

• Charlotte Observer, Dec. 4, page 1A: “State steers history material: Some teachers object to education officials using a Koch-funded group to write history lessons,” by Lynn Bonner.

• Charlotte Observer, Dec. 4, page 3A: “Kingmaker or royal pain to GOP?: Former S.C. Sen. Jim DeMint building Heritage Foundation into conservative force,” by William Douglas, McClatchy Washington Bureau.

• ProPublica, Dec. 14: “When charter schools are nonprofit in name only,” by Miriam Wong.

— Donald C. Tracy

Salisbury

Thanks, Troop No. 442

The Christmas spirit has been shared. Boy Scout Troop No. 442 from First Methodist Church treated our neighborhood to Christmas carols Monday evening. David Wilson and other Scout leaders accompanied the very gracious and animated group who delighted us with their songs. We are extremely grateful and appreciate your keeping this tradition alive.

— Edith Julian

Salisbury

Letters policy

The Salisbury Post welcomes letters to the editor. Each letter should be limited to 300 words and include the writer’s name, address and daytime phone number. Letters may be edited for clarity and length. Limit one letter each 14 days. Write Letters to the Editor, Salisbury Post, P.O. Box 4639, Salisbury, NC 28145-4639. Or fax your letter to 639-0003. E-mail: letters@salisburypost.com.