Quran controversy

I enjoyed Kathleen Parker’s Tuesday column [“Letter to the Muslim world”] about the pastor in Florida threatening to burn Qurans and about Muslims. She’s correct that this pastor is a fool and should be ignored. She’s also correct that we should be tolerant of Muslims — and that they should be patient with us.

However, had Pastor Terry Jones sought my counsel on his plan to burn the Quran, I would have told him that he had the legal right to do so but it would be unwise. I would also have said his conduct might upset some people and someone might get hurt.

Likewise, if those desiring to erect a mosque near ground zero sought my counsel, I’d say they had the legal right to do so, but it would be unwise. I’d also have said that such conduct might upset some and someone might get hurt.

Jerry Campbell, Waco

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The plan of a Florida Christian pastor to burn a Quran was properly condemned by most Americans.  But what of the thousands of Qurans — along with their owners — we have burned or obliterated through our military assaults on Iraq and Afghanistan?

Those books and lives are just as sacred as holy volumes and lives in the United States. If each American expressed this belief in the sanctity of all life to their congressional representatives, America’s endless wars would finally cease.

Alan D. Northcutt, Waco

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Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf says they’re not building the mosque near ground zero to disrespect anyone and disputes this is “hallowed ground.” Well, to the people who lost loved ones and most people in the United States, it most certainly is.

Since Muslims are so strict with their women, I question why they would build their sacred mosque near an exotic dance club or a betting parlor anyway.

This guy is pretty much trying to slap us in the face. If he means no disrespect, then he will understand how Americans feel and move it elsewhere, like Afghanistan.

Diane Schrader, Waco

Control students

I have a huge problem with many Midway Middle School students gathering at the Taco Casa on Hewitt Drive after school on weekdays.

They are some of the most rude and obnoxious people I have ever encountered. The students do not have any respect for other people or property. They cause a traffic hazard in the parking lot and in the 800 block of Hewitt Drive as they run back and forth through the busy intersection.

I have heard them yell, curse and fight with each other without any regard to who may be around.

When I was younger, my mother and father would have tanned my hide had I thought of doing these things. It’s ridiculous that Taco Casa must hire a security officer to watch the children and ensure they behave.

To the parents of these children: It’s not the school’s responsibility to raise your children, only to educate them. It is not Taco Casa’s responsibility to baby-sit your children, either.

Start taking responsibility and provide proper afterschool care.

Jeff Foley, Hewitt