Friday October 12, 2001

Freedom different for everyone

OK, my problem with the word "freedom" used by Americans is that it means something different to everyone who uses it. The white, heterosexual male will have a vastly different view of freedom than will a non-straight, non-Christian Arab woman like me. People toss the word "freedom" around like it's a universal experience, and I don't think it is.

I myself am not an extremist at any end of the spectrum. I'm not anti-American, but I don't agree with the kind of blind patriotism I've been seeing lately. I don't like how Americans act like we've been happily frolicking through the centuries without hurting anyone, or that we have military forces in other countries simply to "keep the peace," when we usually do so for our own benefit, exploiting natural resources in countries we would never think to "aid" otherwise.

Some may call me pessimistic. On the contrary, I am so idealistic that I think the only way to bring about change is to really look at the whole picture - to look at the dark spots of America with an honest flashlight. Did anyone deserve to die in New York City and Washington? Hell no. Does bombing Afghanistan really make a strong statement against terrorism, or does it just help in furthering the cause? You tell me.

I just cringe a little when I see waving flags everywhere as some sort of freedom cry, because I'm wondering what it actually stands for. If it stands for anger against terrorism, then OK. But if it stands for a further cultivation of the sort of patriotism that quickly turns into feelings of American supremacy... that's when I get nervous. And I get sick and tired of hearing "God bless America," because I think that statement has the potential to be very superficial and manipulative.

Instead, I'd like to hear "God Bless the World" because without a more universal and deep-seeded tolerance, terrorism will always be a threat, whether we are the victims or the perpetrators.

Sarah Dreeha

theatre education junior

Hagler's comic hilarious

In response to the negative comments made regarding Josh Hagler's comic strip: RELAX! It is a comic strip for Christ's sake; lighten up. Some may not agree with it, but many think it's fucking hilarious, including myself. The top-ten is on my refrigerator, because it's so funny.

Yes, he did say, "get a gun and shoot yourself." But, in my opinion, if someone reads that and proceeds to get a gun and shoot themselves, they are obviously mental and searching for a reason. If that throws you over the edge it isn't his fault - it's the chemicals in your head.

Ah, and let's not forget the greeks. How could we ignore the "respectable group of women (men) they are?" Josh explained it all too well - they "perpetuate their own stereotype." Yes, I have taken the time to get to know some greeks, and as a majority (as in, not all of them) they are what the comic strip stated. Do you think the skanky people you see walking around campus are independent??? Come on, frat boy, of course you disagree with Josh's opinion: You're a frat boy, and frat boys love themselves.

Finally, if you really have a problem with the amount of writing in the comic strip, don't read it; no one is forcing you to. Josh has an innovative style. It may differ from the Mr. Rogers humor that you all love so much, but that doesn't make it bad; it only makes it better. Get a life, and a better, less sensitive sense of humor.

I think we should all end this debate by allowing the people who enjoy it to read it, and the people who don't to stop. What a grand idea!

Oh, and if this letter gets your panties in a wad, please re-read it, and pay attention to the LIGHTEN UP part.

Cassie Fowler

special education sophomore

Wildcat should bring back 'Pickle'

I am writing in regards to the recent complaints and grievances with Josh Hagler's comic "Furnexistential." I, for one, regularly bypass this area of scribble and nonsensical ramblings. I feel if I were to read the comic, I would only wish to regain the time spent deciphering the ramblings of a toilet, a chair or whichever inanimate object Hagler has pontificating on the existence of bellybutton lint.

However, seeing as though Hagler just happens to be the illustrations editor, I believe it can be reasonably safe to assume that demented scribbles aren't going anywhere. That's fine with me. I simply wish to propose a compromise. I wish to resurrect a legend.

I remember a time when reaching the comic section was a joy. I would routinely wade through the Fast Facts and the Police Beat, taking note of who had been recently busted with a "green leafy substance," until I reached the final page of the paper. Reading the very first comic on this page was routine for me. Almost devotional.

Within four simply drawn boxes lay the mantra of all fun loving college students. Where else could one find a daily beer joke, stripper joke, slacking-off-in-class joke or perfectly timed boob joke that never seemed to get old? The answer is found in only one word: "Pickle."

The Wildcat needs to recapture that simplicity. I propose a resurrection. Bring back "Pickle" if even for a monthly "Best of..." edition. I'm sure that Burgess wouldn't mind the exposure. Do us all a favor, Josh. Look through an older edition of the Wildcat and take notice of the pure comedic joy "Pickle" brings to the page. Bring back "Pickle."

Bring it back for the humor, and if that's not reason enough, bring it back for Susan (his friend with the big boobs). She was hot!

Ace Cates

media arts senior