Pubdate: Mon, 24 Jul 2006
Source: Victoria Times-Colonist (CN BC)
Copyright: 2006 Times Colonist
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/481
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v06/n952/a02.html
Author: Dale Perkins

CARING FOR SOCIETY IS CURE FOR DRUG WOES

Re: "We can't ignore street addiction issues forever," column, July 21.

Again, Jody Paterson presents a reality few of us comprehend, but 
just as important, a challenge that drives us to the wall. "There's a 
firestorm coming, and somebody's going to have to do something about it."

What "something" means is only hinted at: "family support. A place to 
live. A sense of belonging ..." to name a few.

But wait! Those are exactly what all of us need. Could it be that the 
solutions are what constitute a compassionate, caring community?

Nothing in the list about the need to make a profit, or to get ahead 
of the other guy, or to win at all costs, just plain, ordinary, 
social democratic values.

And attitudes that lead us to look out for others, especially the 
most vulnerable and socially challenged.

Unfortunately, the current ideological straitjacket of the people in 
power is the direct opposite.

They want us to believe that if people cannot compete in our 
market-driven economy they deserve what they get.

There are options, and it takes discerning people like Paterson to 
help us find a way out of our malaise.

Dale Perkins,

Victoria.
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