To the editor:

Carl Burkhead’s recent letter regarding the massacre in Connecticut brought several emotions to mind, i.e., horror, disgust, amazement and anger. If I hadn’t seen his name, I would swear that it was written by the Phelps Westboro clan of crackpots.

The level of disregard for the families and friends hit by this madness is just beyond comprehension. He thinks that those murdered aren’t the victims, dismissing them as part of the judgment?  He says instead that “we are the victims,” apparently referring to himself and others that continue to believe only in a wrathful, vengeful God.

Well, I wish that these views would remain his alone, or better yet, he’d realize how misguided he is and change his opinion. Seeing himself as a good Christian doesn’t give him an advantage over adherents to other religions or to non-believers either. All that is required to be considered a “good” person is to treat others kindly, to show love, compassion and understanding. Do the words of Jesus come to mind?

This letter drips with hate and ignorance. I can only hope that families in Newtown don’t hear about it as they bury and mourn their loved ones. Mr. Burkhead has used this tragedy to further his own hateful views. Shame on him!