Tolerance is an important issue that needs attention on campus. As college students, we should be able to interact and understand opinions different from our own. College is a time to meet and interact with a diverse group of people. However, Brother Rick is an exception to the rule. The evangelical pastor who announces his views on campus is offensive.

The socially acceptable things to do when confronted with other people’s beliefs are to listen and to try to relate. Brother Rick makes this extremely difficult. On several occasions, I have seen him make personal attacks on people who are simply walking by and minding their own business. Publicly expressing your views is what this country was founded on, but when your views are personal attacks on someone, lines have been crossed. Since when is it OK to be accused of adultery for carrying a sorority bag or a sinner for smoking a cigarette?

Maybe we should think of tolerance in terms of acceptance. It should be getting to know people and their beliefs, rather than being understanding of a man proclaiming that we are all going to hell if we do not change our evil ways. Tolerance is a mutual understanding between people with differences. Brother Rick’s judgment of people that he has never met is intolerable. Next time you see him on campus walk away. This is the best way to “tolerate” Brother Rick’s behavior.

Carrie Nance

communications and community and

leadership development junior