Tragedy should remind us of importance of freedom of choice

Though the crime committed by Sarah Tatum is inexcusable, one can only wonder what could have possibly driven a successful female college student to such extremes.

As a pre-business student from Scottsdale, there is a good possibility that Tatum hails from a conservative family – with parents who she may have been afraid to go to for help and guidance in a situation of this nature. It is all too common for conservatives to disown their daughters when they become pregnant at a young age, or when they may come to the conclusion that the best choice would be the termination of the pregnancy. Without familial support, all that is left is a terrified student without a support system and nothing but the fear of having to raise a child alone (when they themselves still have so much growing up to do).

I am uncertain of the details of Sarah’s individual circumstance, but let this tragedy serve as a reminder to all that the freedom of choice is supposed to prevent atrocities such as this. But who could make a decision like this one without the love and support of their parents? A decision of such magnitude is one that cannot be made alone. A suggestion: women who are considering having a child, or who are already expecting and unprepared to deal with the worst of their children’s actions should reconsider their commitment – as sex is a reality and pregnancy a common consequence (more so for those who don’t take measures to protect themselves).

If you’re not sure you’re capable of loving a daughter who has made a mistake, or who makes the decision to exercise her right to choose, reconsider – or use the services at your disposal to end what you’re unwilling to love and support through it all.

P.S. Let us not forget that Ms. Tatum is merely human, and though it may be impossible to imagine what one would do in similar situation, one should empathize. For it’s not only Sarah and her child that suffer, but her family and friends as well.

Daniella Trimble

environmental sciences sophomore

Diamonds unnecessary for couples to prove their love

Taylor Kessinger, thank you so much for your article, “”Diamonds are the world’s worst friend”” (Feb. 27, 2009). I am a 23-year-old female and I completely agree that the diamond engagement ring is an outdated and wasteful tradition. I don’t understand why some people think that spending a ridiculous amount of money (and in some cases, going into debt) to buy your loved one a shiny, useless rock is the best way to show your love and devotion.

As long aszz a couple loves and supports each other and demonstrates that through their actions, why the heck is a diamond ring even necessary? People should watch the diamond ring commercial parody from Important Things With Demetri Martin, which is a hilarious take on this ridiculous tradition: http://www.comedycentral.com/videos/index.jhtml?videoId=217479&title=timing-de-veers-diamonds

Anais Arias

media arts junior

Students should stick to writing about what they know

I am sick and tired of reading articles by UA students and recent grads about the Middle East, especially the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. UA students: You have no credibility on the issue. All I see are biased and offensive rants that are full of lies and hatred. It is clear that you don’t know what you’re talking about, so here’s a tip: leave it to the professionals. Let’s leave this sensitive issue to the politicians in Washington, Israel, Palestine and the rest of the Middle East. We may not always agree with them, but at least they present credibility and are experienced on the issue.

It is time we became less critical and more optimistic. If you want to rip on someone, rip on girls on campus who wear Uggs with short skirts. You have no right to call Israel a “”terrorist country”” or all Arabs terrorists because you watch the BBC. Write about how you’re proud of something, or look forward to an event coming up – something that will make us all excited as you are.

I think it’s great that we celebrate our diversity here. For example, Israel week or events for Palestinians on campus are fun and unite students. However, is it possible to have a Palestinian event when the main topic isn’t about Israeli occupation? Celebrate your heritage; it should be a fun and enjoyable occasion, but I see a flier for this event and there’s not one line that’s not about Israeli oppression. This is not “”telling the truth”” but teaching us to hate instead of become more tolerant and open. Studies show that educated people are more tolerant than the uneducated, and I think UA student articles are contradicting that with their biased articles.

So let us stop writing fabrications and publicly announcing our own prejudices and start writing on the positive end. Everyone has a bias and you have the right to express your opinion, but there’s no need publicize your hatred and make up ridiculous facts. You are better off sharing your happiness, which can be contagious. “”Few things in the world are more powerful than a positive push. A smile. A word of optimism and hope. And you can do it when things are tough.”” -Richard M. DeVos

Eli Macanian

political science junior