Editor:
In the medical drama New Amsterdam, the chief of staff (a doctor) always ask the question: “How can I help?” It comes from a place of deep concern and empathy for others.
This question has bothered me ever since the news broke about the incident at Centennial Beach a few weeks ago. If you saw a person crawling along the rocks outside of your home, during high tide, then would you ask: “How can I help?” If not, then why not?
Perhaps this is a question the homeowner at Centennial Beach should be asking herself. Perhaps this is a question that a police investigator should be asking her. Perhaps this is a question that a judge should also be asking her, prior to her being potentially charged with assault (a summary conviction), issued a fine or sentenced to some community service.
I have only lived in South Delta for a short time, relative to other residents here, but one thing that I have noticed is that most people in this rural farming community are almost always willing to help others. I hope that
I would always do that (and others would do the same for me) when the time comes, even during exceptional times.
Maybe the homeowner was initially startled by the other person, however that is no excuse for what allegedly happened next.
Every person has to share in some of the responsibility for their own words and actions. The bottom line is that people in glass houses shouldn’t throw water (at others). Instead, they should be doing their best to assist others who are in danger of getting wet.
A. Cameron
