Low-barrier furor based on fear of the unknown
To the Editor,
I have been reading with interest and concern the letters and editorials surrounding the low-barrier housing issue in Nanaimo.
It seems to me that there is much furor totally based on fear of the unknown and a lot of assumptions as to what “might happen” if the low-barrier housing project goes ahead.
When we allow fear to rule we debase ourselves as a society.
Author Joan Chittister says, “Courage is not the lost part of ourselves; it is the hidden part of ourselves that only fear can energize. Fear is not the opposite of courage. Fear is the catalyst of courage.”
I work with people in addictions and see tremendous courage as they struggle against huge obstacles to manage their disease.
It could be you or me or our children who are “down on their luck”.
Surely as a compassionate society we need to face our fears and use them as a catalyst of courage and give these people a chance.
Low-barrier housing is a step in that direction. Let’s give it a chance.
Marian Lord
Nanaimo
What do you think? Give us your comments by fax at 250-753-0788 or by e-mail: editor@nanaimobulletin.com. Be sure to spell out your first and last names.
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