Kerry's Views Understandable

To the editors:

Regarding The Crimson’s Feb. 11 article on John Kerry’s statements 30 years ago (News, “Old Crimson Interview Reveals A More Radical John Kerry”): It is difficult for me to understand how anyone would not only expect, but hope, that an individual would be allowed the privilege of expressing an opinion over 30 years ago, and the extended right to change or grow that opinion over time.

Our views and ideas should remain under constant scrutiny and deliberation in our own hearts and minds as we age. Should our opinions remain as they were when we were making our way through young adulthood, or examining our lives after a tour of duty in an ugly and needless war? I hope and pray not, it it the only way that I can find a glimmer of hope for people like George W. Bush—that maybe over time he will learn and grow and open his mind.

TINA ERICSON

Feb. 11, 2004