Columnist understands both sides of the smoking dilemma

submitted by Naomi R. Krzyzaniak

September 17, 2007 —

I enjoyed Matt Boog's article last week on "Something More, Something Better." I think you captured key points in the smoking dilemma and your comparison to the war in Iraq was a good one. It's passionate disagreements that start wars, end marriages and sever lifelong friendships. Both sides remain dogmatic in their stance with a laundry list of why the opposing view is wrong. How many holy wars have caused the death of innocent lives in the "name of god"? How tragic.

One thing that sets college students apart from high school kids is that they are taking on the responsibility of decision making adults. The college experience is meant to challenge student's beliefs, boundaries and values. "What do you believe and why? What do you stand for? What are you about?"

The fact that the SVSU administration acknowledges that students are capable of contributing solutions to student issues is indeed commendable.

'The SVSU administration is offering to take the opinions of the students seriously, and telling us that they need our help. They are going above and beyond to make sure that the students are involved in the solution.

On the other hand, they are also sending the message that we are partially responsible for settling this dispute in a manner that will leave the majority of us happy.'

Anyone can point out problems, complain and argue; but it takes character and maturity to take the initiative to understand opposing views and present solutions. Too much attention is given to college students partying life style. College students are something more, something better. Thank you for articulating this point so clearly.

Naomi R. Krzyzaniak Girl’s Chaplain Ecumenical Campus Ministry