Readers share thoughts on Juneteenth, Donald Trump, Australian policy

History, hospice

Everyone knows July 4 is America’s birthday, the day we celebrate the creation of a nation where “all men are created equal.”

But 4 million African-American slaves waited another 89 years to taste freedom — until June 19, 1865, (Juneteenth) when Union forces occupying Texas began enforcing the emancipation of slaves throughout the South.

One can appreciate why many African-American citizens view Juneteenth as another day to celebrate freedom.

America is often called a melting pot, with myriad religious backgrounds, races, cultures, languages and lifestyles. As hospice and palliative care providers, we need to understand how different perspectives affect attitudes toward illness, pain, coping and death — and one’s openness to exploring hospice and other treatment options.

African-Americans make up 12 percent of the population, but only 7.6 percent of hospice patients.

As we help educate patients, families and health-care professionals about hospice, it’s important to appreciate their perspectives so they make treatment decisions appropriate for their situations.

Much like the Juneteenth holiday, once we understand history, we can appreciate and honor perspectives that shape people’s choices and actions.

Shanae McMiller

Independence

Trump, terrorism

Where is the outrage regarding presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump’s insinuation that President Barack Obama is an Islamic radicalist terrorist sympathizer?

Peggy Smith

Olathe

Australian example

In 1996 in Australia, 35 people were killed with an automatic assault rifle. The Australia government said it was not going to have that happen again and implemented gun control in a country with a strong outdoors mentality.

Australia hasn’t had a gun massacre since.

It’s time the United States does the same.

H. Lon Swearingen

Kansas City

Trump’s triumph

Presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump is loud and often says rude things that many people think need to be said. Contrary to his statements, he is not a self-made man, but the product of people’s frustration with the political class, the news media and runaway political correctness.

America has been under attack for many years by radical terrorist groups. The Orlando, Fla., shooter took time to call 911 and swear allegiance to one of those groups.

Yet, President Barack Obama, presidential candidates and some of The Star staff have concluded that the problem was the gun the assailant used.

It is little wonder that Mr. Trump has done so well.

Carl Smart

Independence

Find a quiet place

Your world and our world are better when you do your thinking and working in a quiet and peaceful setting. You have much to offer, and what you share could bring good thoughts and actions and provide a happy condition.

There is a happy feeling when you can hear the workings of your mind. And a peaceful and quiet setting can produce wonders.

What a joy to not have constant chatter that blocks out thoughts.

In our busy world with many personal demands, it is not easy to find a “hiding place” that will allow your creative mind to function properly. Maybe a peaceful time in the hammock or walking and enjoying the great outdoors will help more people awaken with fresh minds.

Don’t let others’ noise hurt your mind. Be creative.

Doug Sutherland

Raymore

Mr. Incomparable

It’s always so ingenious

To hear somebody say

“You’re the best dad, ever ...

Happy Father’s Day!”

It’s more than awe-inspiring

To see one such as you

Receive such loyal commendations

That are so well-earned, and due!

I’m just a little echo of

So many salutations ...

Discreetly adding, through observance,

Endeared elaborations ...

You’re the backbone of the family;

Breadwinner, strength and tower;

The hero and defender with

Unprecedented power!

“Mr. Grand, Incomparable”

You excel in every way

And rightfully deserve to have

A happy Father’s Day!

Dee Ann

Foley Doxsee