Thank you for giving a voice to both sides in your coverage of the Summit Township billboard controversy.

The overwhelming majority of comments I’ve received about this were positive and supportive. Few were not.

Some people want to silence others. They also want the authorities to force everyone to bow to their demands. Forcing speech is worse than restricting it.

Some people have no regard for the principles that make and keep us free. Others have great contempt for them.

Those who seek to silence anyone who opposes their views fail to see the danger in it for everyone — including themselves and their loved ones.

Many who decry hate are full of it. The majority of the citizens in this region are tired of being criticized, marginalized and attacked for their beliefs.

I’m compelled by my love of God and my neighbor to stand for biblical precepts. God so loved the world that He cleared the way out of hatred through believing in His message of love. He promises whoever believes will not perish, but have everlasting life.

Love motivates me. I stand for morality and traditional values.

We must speak up, even if it requires a letter to the editor, a yard sign or a privately owned electronic billboard.

Free speech protects from tyranny. Silence leads to being segregated and marginalized by those in power.

May free speech always guide your work.

John Pistorius, pastor

Christ’s Family Church, Chicora