Dear Editor;

The National Herald’s April 11-17 edition brought me a renewed belief in humanity. For a very long time, I had come to believe that the general public has lost the ability to have respect for those who display true compassion and genuine interest in the world and its people. So often, I’ve been appalled at the one-sided, prejudiced, insensitive individuals who freely criticize and belittle those whose opinions do not reflect their own. This morning, reading the letter to the editor by Christopher J. Helali of Vermont, my faith was so renewed that, I say it without reserve, I teared. That there still are so sensitive, so compassionate, so fair minded people like Mr. Helali is healing and gratifying.

Had I chosen to write a piece about Manolis Glezos, I believe I could never have written one as expressive, as poignant a piece as his. He succeeded in comparing him with heroes of ancient Greek proportions. Further, I read the editorial by Honorable Eraklis A. Diamataris and again, I felt a warmth and renewed belief in the intelligence, goodness and generosity of people, though few they are. In expressing his personal opinion of Senator Bernie Sanders, also of Vermont, he did it with respect and honesty and gave the man the credit he deserved. How can I not respect and honor a man who proves himself a scholar and gentleman. His facts too, on today’s condition are accurate. Yet, few will admit to it due to misplaced patriotism or fear of criticism.

Mr. Diamataris, plainly and bravely, mentions the endless, illegal wars – wars that we are expected to support and donate to. Who was it that said, ‘Patriotism is the last refuge of the scoundrel’? Both gentlemen have my high regard.  They are special, rare individuals, whose strong voices could help to revise the diminished democratic voice. When history records stories of despots, dictators and criminals, one trait stands out among their many inferior qualities – selfishness! Whatever plans or designs they display it is always with themselves and personal glorification in mind, from the beginning.

Those who follow them are ignorant and equally selfish. But, in the end, when their deeds become transparent, their inferior qualities surface and all their followers are forced to recognize their own mistaken pursuits. With unbiased visions like the above mentioned, maybe there’s hope in this present darkness.

Phyllis ‘Kiki’ Sembos

Emerson, NJ