You Said It

Shine a light

Jim Schutze's balanced and poignant examination of the complex problem of the homeless downtown ("Mercy Me," December 13) was an exalted example of a gifted writer and compassionate man at the height of his power to do what journalists should do: move us all to care about a fairness beyond ourselves. How we translate that care into policies, procedures and programs that actually help the object of our care is much more difficult to determine. But I want to thank Jim for a story about mercy and the myriad roadblocks to applying it to such a deeply rooted problem at this time of year, when I get nauseated looking at the excess of yard displays in front of homes where a month's electric bill could help house and treat one lost soul. The only problem with Jim's column is that the people who could actually address the problem in an effective way won't see it. They're too busy hosting lavish parties in their mansions. Sadly, I've come to the conclusion that those who could help never become involved in problems like drug and alcohol abuse or domestic violence until those problems come into their homes and sit in their laps. Here's hoping those who do care can find a way to help those who cannot help themselves.

Thanks to Jim Schutze for a truly moving column about a very complicated issue. The good news in all this is that the city appears to be paying attention and trying to make Dallas a more compassionate city. I extend my sincere admiration to the Reverend Clifford and those folks at First Presbyterian who care for "the least of these." A bed in a parking lot is not ideal by any means and is no permanent solution, but they cared enough to give sanctuary to the nameless, faceless, powerless among us, and for that they should be commended.

Most Wonderful Time

We knew you had it in you, Richie. A positive column! About the Cowboys! Well done ("Smitten With Witten," by Richie Whitt, December 13). Merry Christmas!

Tremendous article on Jason Witten. Nice to read about a great guy giving back.

We have lots to be thankful for with the Cowboys having such success this year, but this was a story worth telling. With so much media attention going to the on- and off-field problems or dating habits of various pro athletes, you came along and delivered a reason to feel good about the pro athlete as a role model. Jason very well could be our next media darling. His performance and character are admirable and so is your article, as the telling of his story was a brilliant idea and well-conceived. Thanks again, Richie, for a great read and a chance to feel good about a sports star again.

Sexist stink

Well, you've gone and done it.

I don't even like Carol Reed, and here I am venturing dangerously close to being on her side ("Bring It On," by Matt Pulle, December 13). I do not take exception to the article, but to the cover shot. Here you are discussing a woman who, in your own words, is a powerful political pundit. Yet, you diminish her achievements and her (and why not throw in all women while we are at it) by using a graphic of a cheerleader's ass. Let's see, what do you think of when you hear "cheerleader"? An empty-headed woman cheering on her man with no power or control over the game's outcome? That's not the Carol Reed you describe. But why make this about sex and, hence, about gender, by framing the picture so that we are all forced to unnecessarily inch closer to being an up-skirt voyeur? It's demeaning, and it's wrong. Mark this up to feminist ranting if you want, but I believe your story could have been that much more powerful without the sexist stink that picture gives it.

I don't really care about this story, but rather, whose fine backside is that on the cover?