In response to Chad Solsvik's recent column, let's start with the first word - memo! Any memo I've received was short, precise, and to the point. None of these normal expectations apply to this convoluted mixture of ideas and topics!

The condemnation of the Christian right according to Chad's definitions as right wing evangelicals, Republicans is equally abhorrent. Using the Biblical Good Samaritan is a wonderful example of a personal response, not a government dictate! We have various local ministries, one actually using that name, that operate by donations and volunteers from the heart of the people, not from the government and its dictates. We have achieved locally a meal available every day at soup kitchens in various locations operated by volunteers largely provided by the very people Chad is condemning. They are not all wealthy and some come to help in response to previous help they received.

The financial donations for these projects come from the wealthy to the poor as God lays it on their hearts, not government edicts. The representation of corporate oil companies and other big business corporations as demons wanting hungry and sick children to die is equally an unacceptable statement and misrepresentation. Companies are not personal. However, if we bothered to check the donations many of their people make it would totally refute this sick comparison.

I could write a book breaking down this comparison but suffice it to say you can't make personal and nonpersonal comparisons. The "I've got mine" remark totally blew my mind as his description of Christians! I know many Christians from many denominations and the one thing I see in common is a heartfelt need to help. The precious ones I know have a heart to help unselfishly on a personal level, usually involved in any outreach to help the disadvantaged, hungry, and needy.

Over the years "government" by definition and job description has changed. It has different connotations to many people and countries. That is why the constitution was written! In fact, definitions of many words have completely been obliterated! Somehow the word Republican equals rich and the word Christian equals hate are not only incorrect but cause a defamation of character by those groups using these definitions incorrectly. Chad cannot seem to separate the personal commitments and accountability we all have from government tax supported projects and edicts.

Freedom is not a one way street and dealt with by our forefathers. History is another subject by itself taken by bits and pieces at will instead of the whole picture. His use of Old Testament and New Testament teachings are equally incorrect rattle. OT in many ways was proving out the sinful nature of man that needed to be dealt with. Our precious Lord Jesus Christ came to deal with that through His death, resurrection in our place to show us by example the forgiveness and ability to a new life not mired in sin. His teachings always get past the surface to the heart.

To be classified as a hate group only points back to Chad and his intentions of condemnation from a critical point of view. Government control is never the answer in the New Testament, it all comes back to personal response, not government control.

Vicci Anderson is a Coeur d'Alene resident.