To the Editor,

Re: “Potential hate crime downtown targets Pride flags,” Haliburton Echo, Sept. 15, 2020 

It seems inconceivable to me that in this day and age there are still people who decide to hate for absolutely no reason.  We live in a beautiful, kind and giving community yet there are those among us who would choose to desecrate another’s property because they fear the personal characteristics that are in the DNA of the business owner.  There is a lot going on for all of us right now, but that gives no one the right to take their own fears out on those who are different – because each of us is different in our own way.

And then there are those who take steps in order to be offended, such as the woman who is seriously affronted by the Pride flags displayed by this same business.  May I offer to her this bizarre advice:  instead of turning your head to the right in order to be offended, keep your eyes on the road, as has been recommended by those in the know, and much appreciated by other road users and jaywalking pedestrians.

In closing, words of wisdom from half a century ago:  All you need is love; Be who you are, my friend; Everybody come together, try to love one another right now.  

Anne-Marie Borthwick
Haliburton