Have you ever watched a group of toddlers play? There is no distinction regarding race or gender, their focus is on toys and socializing with each other. Around the age of 4, they begin to notice differences in gender and perhaps skin color, but their attitudes about these differences come from parents and caregivers who answer any questions they may have. Children raised in loving, nurturing environments grow to accept differences among all people. They mature knowing that kindness, acceptance and tolerance are important values. Children are not born hateful or with prejudice; it is something they are taught. Therefore, I must express how sorry I feel for Paul Melanson, who claims his grandson is being discriminated against at the Asa Adams School in Orono. I am sorry he was taught ignorance and prejudice and that he is teaching the same thing to his grandson.

It is no surprise that Michael Heath’s organization has once again jumped in. Jesus taught tolerance, “love your neighbor as you love yourself.” It is really that simple. That means every neighbor, regardless of race, gender, religious beliefs or sexual orientation.

Regardless of my initial anger over their actions, I must instead take pity on Heath and Melanson and others who believe as they do, because they lack empathy. I feel bad for the children they influence. I believe Demosthenes said it best: “You cannot have a proud and chivalrous spirit if your conduct is mean and paltry; for whatever a man’s actions are, such must be his spirit.”

Sara Sheppard

Orono