Take the higher road

On Sept. 8, a letter from Phyllis Verduin expressed her disapproval concerning the productions of the Coeur d’Alene Summer Theatre. While her observations are accurate, they are only a part of the much larger problem of mediocrity.

Aug. 28 marked the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King’s “March for Jobs and Freedom.” In his time, people were denied employment and civility purely on the basis of skin pigmentation. Instead of kowtowing to the status quo, he did as Amy Quigley (Sept. 9) suggested and said no to unfair treatment. Fifty years (and several skirmishes) later African Americans are making gains based on merit.

Mediocrity has infected every aspect of our lives. Reality shows are a result of viewers who prefer to live vicariously through the tribulations of others. The movie industry cranks out four films a month instead of twice a year. “Gone With the Wind” has been replaced by movies like “Dude, Where’s My Car?” There was a time when grammar mattered. Now, the majority of Americans sound like Jethro Bodine.

Next to seeking Jesus, we should strive for excellence. All the SATs in the world will not replace an individual commitment to taking the higher road.

Douglas Benn

Spokane