I am not one that believes in organized religion, as I believe in the prophet Thomas that God is all around us, and his church is all around us on Earth. I do not need a church and its corruption in needing 10 percent to go to heaven.

It is just like the government wanting a percentage to spend on things I do not believe in. My 10 percent goes to those in need, such as the wounded warriors and preserving nature: God’s true masterpiece.

My beliefs are just that – mine – and no one should have the right to dictate who I serve and what I should tolerate in my private life.

In public, I treat others as I wish to be treated: with respect. I have seen other parts of this world through my travels in the military and how organized religion has caused almost all of these wars. They believe their beliefs are right, and anyone who does not believe as they do should be – and is – put to death. How is it women and children over there are lower than cattle and treated as such but our government is willing to negotiate with them?

The media and others in this country are turning into those I see overseas. The pizzeria in Indiana is a great example, as they are willing to serve anyone in public, but a private affair such as a wedding, they draw the line because of their belief, and they should have that right. Yet the media and others are so intolerant they wish only to chastise their religious beliefs.

I guess I am just tired of the media and those who lie, cheat and steal to make a point that is not the truth. I thought we had a Constitution that gave certain inalienable rights.

I wish and pray for all of you and that you just respect and tolerate others that may not believe in what you believe in, but they have that right and should not be chastised for it.

Christopher M. Jones

Bayfield