Editor:
Writing letters to the editor is not my preferred sport by a long shot, but I feel compelled to respond to Kathy Patterson's letter (Coast Reporter, Aug. 10). Its tone and content are very disturbing.
Thankfully our experience since moving to the Coast several years ago is that Ms. Patterson's views are those of a minority albeit a very vocal minority.
It is with sadness that we see so many bright young people - the future of any community - leaving for lack of opportunity.
I would very much like Ms. Patterson to describe "big city ideas."
It seems to me that notions ofhonesty, fairness, reason and respect are pretty universal, as well asdecisions based on clear thinking rather than fear and insecurity.
As most professionals are trained in the big city, does she prefer that doctors, lawyers, teachers and other professionals stay away?
For the Sunshine Coast, as with Canada, it is our diversity that makes us strong and vibrant. As soon as we feel we have all the answers and shut out the outside world, we begin to die. It is one thing to have love and appreciation for the things we have. It is quite another to not be able to conceive of ways things can be better.
As a relative newcomer, I shall endeavour to be respectful, but I will not be silenced.
Rick Horsley
Gibsons
