Wednesday, July 3, 2002

I just read with shock and horror [the Rev. David Epps'] affirmation of spanking of children and teaching that disobedience causes pain.

Your [column in the Friday paper] turned my stomach and gave me flashbacks of my abuse at the hand of my parents. It is for that reason I will not address you with your title.

Spanking is violence and you are condoning it by suggesting it is OK. You even suggest the use of a belt. That is sadistic. Perhaps the Protestant clergy needs some closer scrutiny also.

It is one thing to preach this kind of thing in your own church, but to publish it will only give fuel to those abusive people who say they are just doing God's work.

You say spanking administered fairly, quickly and without rage is a good thing. Who judges what is fair, quick and whether or not there is rage? Does the parent make this judgment or the child? Is it made by an observer or another child?

Violence breeds violence and the effects are forever. There is no wisdom in spanking. It is the easy solution for those who don't have time to teach their children how to behave.

Jill Lech

Sharpsburg

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