The Nuns on the Bus arrived in Marietta to advocate for those less fortunate than most of us - for those who do not have a voice in our society, such as the very young, the poor, and the elderly. These women were doing God's work. To the letter writer who was glad that the nuns were challenged, my question is very simple. Where did you learn your Christian values? Her letter was full of excuses attempting to justify the bad behavior of her group. The group was made up of a few Catholics, Tea Party members, and a few Republicans. The behavior displayed was unwelcoming, intimidating, combative, and just plain rude, including the sign being carried by one member of the Catholic Church reading, "BUMS ON THE BUS".
On that infamous day the women of the church were reciting the Hail Mary prayer. Having been born and raised in the Catholic church I certainly had to question who this Mary was that they were praying to for guidance. Certainly not the Mother of God? The words to the following hymn describe the Mary that I was taught to love and respect.
Gentle woman, quiet light, morning star
so strong and bright,
gentle mother peaceful dove
teach me wisdom, teach me love.
The praying women were not displaying any of these qualities insofar as their attitude toward the nuns was concerned.
Once you cut through the name calling, labeling, and blustering of the author of this letter you end up coming face to face with "bullying," and no matter who is doing it, it is unacceptable behavior. Instead of being proud of this behavior, a note of apology to the Nuns on the Bus is in order. These nuns are strong, unselfish women who are willing to fight for those who cannot fight for themselves even in the face of being vilified by this small group in Marietta. If not for women like this we would still be waiting for our right to vote.
Florence Beidler
Marietta
