Kicking the downtrodden

REGARDING "Cuddling up to trouble", Northern Territory News, (June 29).

Ashley Chin of Gunn, do you really expect me to believe that you have a major infestation of itinerants in pretty little Gunn. Says nothing about it in the glossy brochures. Sure you're not just jumping on the bigotry bandwagon and having a go at kicking those who are already down?

Your attempt at sarcasm only shows what a mean-spirited little man you are. However, if you think cuddles might work, give it a go. Personally I prefer a different approach. I get to know the itinerants and youth in my area, I treat them with respect and have it returned manifold. I seek out those who want to make change in their lives and encourage them toward a more dignified existence with all the moral support I can give.

This has involved opening my home and my heart and at times, offering a bed to sleep it off, on many occasions. I find treating people with respect and dignity returns a more favourable response than your method of scowling and grunting, hissing and spitting disapproval.

Robert Fyffe
Rapid Creek

Newshawk: http://www.napnt.org
Pubdate: Mon, 15 Aug 2005
Source: Northern Territory News (Australia)
Author: Robert Fyffe (Letter to the editor)
Copyright: 2005 Northern Territory News
Contact: ntnmail@ntn.newsltd.com.au
Website: http://ntnews.news.com.au/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/283