LETTERS: GOING TOO FAR

To the editor:

Dr. Barnett Slepian said he didn't begrudge anti-abortion demonstrators who "scream that I am a murderer and a killer when I enter the clinics at which they peacefully exercise their First Amendment right of Freedom of Speech." The example of the First Amendment was taken too far when a sniper's bullet entered Dr. Slepian's back.

It is true to say that actions speak louder than words, but is also wrong to take the law into your own hands. Whether a person is pro-life or pro-choice, if abortion is legal in that state, then no outlandish actions should have taken place. Slepian often expressed that abortion foes were encouraging violence, but no protection was provided to the doctor or his family.

Christians feel they have the responsibility to protect the innocent from being murdered. The Rev. Donald Spits said, "Whoever shot the shot protected the children." This statement implies that the minister is condoning the killing of a man who was just doing his job. No one has a responsibility to take a life except God or the police when sanctioned.

The founder of Pro-Life Virginia called Slepian's killer "a hero." Granted, Slepian has killed many innocent, unborn children, but I wouldn't say his killing was the act of a hero. The murderer's actions can't be justified by law.

If Slepian had a premonition of his death, he should have taken extra precautions to keep him and his family safe or ended his practice. Although his death was tragic, it may have been preventable.

JULIE KRAEMER

Cape Girardeau