All freedoms are limited because the exercising of any freedom by a group, or individual, has an impact on others. My freedom of speech and religion, for example, is limited by my obligation to allow others the same freedom. Conversely, the speech and religious practices of others cannot unreasonably disrupt my life. I believe the same case can be made for all the freedoms that we enjoy.
So, as the inevitable conflicts arise when we exercise our freedom to speak, worship, assemble, etc., it seems to me that the ability to compromise is essential. What constitutes a reasonable compromise will vary greatly from situation to situation. But, nothing good will be accomplished if one group demands that its ideas trump the ideas of others. Instead, mature thinking and evidence of mutual respect by all parties involved is essential to achieve any reasonable compromise.
David Bross
Cogan Station
Submitted by Virtual Newsroom
