The mail brought me one particularly critical letter from a respected professional colleague who questioned my opinion and expressed the concern that my columns have far too great a negative impact on the readers. He gave me far more credit than I deserve. And while I understand the reason for his letter, I must admit, it puzzled me and dimmed my three minutes of fame. A good question. Writing relieves tension, pressure, and frustration.
Writing is good escape, much like reading a good book.
To those of us who labor in the vineyard of bureaucracy where orders trickle down and where our ideas are either usurped, ignored, or suppressed, writing is therapeutic and pleasurable. On a more personal and serious note, I would like to take this opportunity to thank those who took the time to write or call. Your caring and sensitive expressions are very much appreciated. As a proud educator and parent, I believe in open communication, good citizenship, and a responsibility to speak out for what is best for students and our community. The strength of our free society lies in our right to think, dream, write, and when necessary, speak out without fear of recrimination.