Hi all

I have been  a little concerned about the tone that some of the letters have
been written in.  I will admit that I was shocked and angered by his
comments but please refrain from shouting at him, telling him to basically
put up with it.  Such confrontation I believe will in the long and short
term do nothing to promote change.  Confrontation with confrontation simply,
I believe, polarizes people.  Polarization leads to segration where one
group thinks that they have the only realistic view, the only answer, the
only way and are better than the other.   Feelings of "better than" are the
same as superiority.   Superiority leads never letting go ones ideas.  When
that happens in a polarized society all that happens is mud slinging.  In a
mud slinging match no-one wins.

I have no problems with sit in and protests.  I would have been one of the
participants.  I have no problems with the fact that some people would have
been uncomfortable with my decision.  At all times though, I would need to
keep in mind that it is ok to express my views and educate.  I would also be
lobbying and involved with the leadership and would be prepared to go to
jail if necessary.  But to be rude, point fingers, telling someone to get a
life (well probably in different words) and how unprofessional they are only
creates barriers.  To be polite yet assertive is a different kettle of fish.
 To respond to what is said and yet keeping your ground and intergrity
builds relationships.  The relationships with people in this position is
what brings about real change in attitudes and behaviours.

So, can I be so bold as to suggest to those who do respond please do so as
if you would like to be the Scham's friend or at least an aquaintance. 
People will remember and be more open to us when we are approachable and
warm and welcoming.  Some would cal it being diplomatic, but I can it
genuinely the way to create change.

Off the soap box

Kind regards

Ruth Fiedler
Australia

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