Upon reading the Friday March 6 editorial page, it was interesting to read the opinions that were submitted. It was also of note to see opinions NOT appearing on the page.

This week Steve Vick’s rude and intolerant behavior in the State Senate certainly deserves comment. Our schools and our community are valiantly working toward the elimination of bullying. What are some of the causes of bullying? Lack of knowledge, intolerance for anyone or anything different than YOU, general narrowness of mind and cruelty. By walking out or refusing to have the courtesy to show respect to the invited cleric of the Hindu religion who had come to give the Senate Invocation was appalling and a poor example for everyone.

Mr. Vick is a State Senator. What would he have done if the person giving the Invocation was a rabbi or a Catholic priest? Being courteous, respectful, showing leadership and tolerance does not place you in agreement with someone with different beliefs. For example, during the campaigns, I made a point of hearing all of the candidates. I may have disagreed with their points of view but walking out or refusing to listen because they believed something I entirely disagreed with would have been as childish and rude as Mr. Vick’s response.

In our country that was founded on freedom of religion and speech, was this appropriate behavior for a state senator? Hardly.

PAMELA BOUILLON

Coeur d’Alene