Choose compassion

In a recent letter to the editor [“Fries With That?”, Feb. 14], Nina Smith vehemently proclaimed that her decision to purchase or not purchase animal products will be solely determined by whether or not the Mountain Xpress chooses to print letters from Terri and Stewart David.

Even after careful consideration of this letter, I still don’t understand Ms. Smith’s motivation for attempting to blackmail the paper’s editors. Is her aversion to the Davids more important to her than her belief system or her set of values? Do the Davids’ letters cause her to feel so incredibly defensive regarding her lifestyle? I simply cannot figure out the reasoning behind such a combative letter.

What I am clear about, though, is the rationale behind the Davids’ thoughtful and well-researched letters. Their hope is that—by highlighting the gross animal cruelty associated with many common industries such as factory farming and puppy mills—enlightened readers will choose compassion over convenience or habit. Terri and Stewart also want to share that sense of peace and empowerment that comes with making a positive impact on the lives of animals simply by employing compassionate consumerism.

Instead of reacting with defensiveness or even apathy, I urge Ms. Smith and all other Mountain Xpress readers to keep their hearts and minds open to new information, particularly that which involves the alleviation of suffering.