Dear Editor,

My name is Dale Edwards, also known as Ask a Mom. I sit in Free Speech Alley on Tuesdays to talk to students. I usually sit next to Mr. Ivan, the Jesus Talk man, who has been out there for 17 years. And no, we are not married. He has a lovely wife, and I am a widow. It is our pleasure to use our retirement years to offer a voice of reason to hurting or just plain curious students.

Yesterday, I left early — almost driven away by those blaring cultists who call themselves Christians as they shouted and screamed hell’s fire at the students who walked by. I had listened to them all morning, but they actually kept getting louder. I found myself squirming and uncomfortable because, by portraying Jesus as a damnation prophet, they were actually taking his name in vain. Jesus said He came into the world to save it, not to condemn it. I felt embarrassed that anyone could confuse Jesus and His message with the bellowing of these people.

As I sit in the alley, I can see the whole promenade as students go from classes to the union. On either side of the alley, it’s like a carnival, with everyone hawking their wares. I sympathize with the stoic looks and stares as students just want to get to lunch or class. I’m sorry for the people who abuse the privilege of Free Speech Alley and wish to offer compassion and listening ears.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Dale Edwards

Ask a Mom