Re: how to respond

Dear colleagues,
        Two students involved in service learning at Berea College wrote
a letter to President Bush, which I forwarded to the campus community.
They're meeting tonight to plan other responses.
Meta Mendel-Reyes

Dear Mr. President,

The recent catastrophic events that took place in New York and
Washington D.C. have not only affected the thousands within the World
Trade Center and the Pentagon, but the weight and burden of violence has
stunned our entire nation. This incomprehensible act has caused an
outpouring of emotion from anger and sadness, to shock and fear. It has
also called many to prayer for the thousands affected.

The decisions now placed before you on how to respond are certainly
difficult. An initial response of angered hearts is often one of
retaliation.  However, as a leader of one of the most powerful nations
in the world, we pray that your actions will be those of courageous,
impartial love. As a powerful world leader, you have the responsibility
to act in a manner that will promote peace.

The thoughts and prayers of the Berea Community are with you.

Love and Peace be with you.

Meta Mendel-Reyes
Director, Center for Excellence in Learning Through Service
Associate Professor of General Studies
CPO 2170
Berea College
Berea, KY 40404
(859) 985-3940
meta_mendel-reyes@berea.edu
fax: (859) 985-3809