Dear Sir,

A brilliant timely article by Sir John Swan on Rudeness, quoting Eric Hoffer the writer who says, “Rudeness is the weak man’s imitation of strength”.

Taking this further internationally, we are guilty of rudely mocking other countries’ ways of life and religion, ignoring completely diplomatic courtesy and kindness and the dangers of free speech, which I might add, holds great responsibilities.

Like choice freedoms given to us by a Greater Power, we can choose for evil or love and harmony.

We are, so to speak, on our honour to choose good from evil.

Would I tell my neighbour I don’t like the colour of his house or that he is overweight? Hardly. Not if I want a happy relationship. So how much more important should it be that our relationships with the world should be delicately handled and diplomatically respectful and right.

We must be thoughtful as to how we challenge and speak to one another and take great care we do not insult for the survival of this lovely little island. These gifts of speech and choices, honour our integrity and wisdom, so to abuse them will be the sword that breaks asunder.

The feeling of being strong enough and powerful enough and stupid enough to make cartoons and songs degrading all that other countries hold most dear, is the evil that we see today. Herein lies the danger on our own little island.

Of course, free speech is the rock foundation of a democracy but to wield it with spiteful lies, rabble rousing and rudeness and deception is irresponsible, foolhardy, and as we see today, deadly dangerous for the peaceful welfare of Bermuda.

The answers are basic but not easy to live by. We have to start with love in our hearts, then change the “attitude”. Nothing is a given, our ancestors gave us the start of something rare and wonderful, that holds us in good stead today, a quiet dignity, charm, a generous heart, and standards.

We should not waste these attributes. It is these attributes that have given Bermuda a worldwide reputation for a welcoming courteous hospitality.

It is also important for parents to teach and soften the pitch/tone of their children’s voices as they are always shouting at each other, to respect their elders with authority and each other.

A Pandora’s Box for evil and terror has been opened up, the like of which the world has never seen or imagined. Nothing will ever be the same, innocence has gone. There will be a sense of fear, safety no longer a given, and a terror that will stalk the world.

It is up to us to listen and learn to respect the different opinions and not drift into antagonistic disrespect and rudeness. The children watching should see good role models to follow.

DIANA WILLIAMS