I would like to make two comments regarding Mr. Vallely's letter yesterday about Timothy McVeigh.

First, since I am from Oklahoma, I appreciate his prayers, both for Mr. McVeigh and for the families of those he killed.

Second, as a Protestant, I question his claim that McVeigh "was taught by the Protestantized, rationalistic culture that war and militarized violence are at times morally acceptable."

For the record, the idea that violence is an acceptable option is not limited to any specific culture, religious denomination or historical period. The Crusades, the Spanish Inquisition and the persecution of French Protestants in the 16th century indicate that Protestants were not the only group to embrace the use of violence at will.

What Timothy McVeigh did cannot be justified by past persecution, psychological trauma, contemporary culture or anything else. He chose to kill innocent people, including my friend's aunt. He now insists on an early execution and the government is going to grant him his wish. Pray for Timothy McVeigh if you want, but please make no excuses for his actions. He brought his fate upon himself.

Stacy Davis

graduate student

South Bend, Ind.

April 11, 2001

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• McVeigh brought fate on himself
  
• Shopping in support of a green revolution
  
• Argument irresponsible
  
• Plan goes beyond protest
  
• Quote of the Day