A young solider from the city of Monroe, La was killed in action recently. He is scheduled to be buried this weekend with full military honors. If this was not enough for his loved ones to deal with, the God Hates America group from Westboro Baptist Church plans on demonstrating.
This is the group that pickets with the awful "God hates fags" signs outside the funeral home. As a former communication instructor, I do support free speech. But goodness, there needs to be limits. We don't need to rubber stamp any government policy. In fact, reasonable debate/ difference of opinion help make this country great. But as a people we need to be able to step back and honor the sacrifice of our fighting men and women.
So while you are enjoying your picnic this Sunday, realize that Americans in Monroe will be saying goodbye to a favorite son. As the family morns in the church, protesters outside will celebrating the young man's death. And a Realtor in Pineville will be even more disappointed in his fellow man.