when we look on a planetary scale instead of our own little realm. If we don't draw the line now and then we're no better than the enabling family of a drug addict. Most addiction counselors will tell you that often the only chance for someone recovering is truly hitting rock bottom.

One thing to remember is that as much as you valued the friendship of these two, they probably much more valued yours. For them the loss was much greater and may have pushed them towards some needed self-examination. They may have hit their political rock bottom.

An old friend of mine died the other day and during the end of his slow decline from cancer, the political issue with the other long time friend came up and I let him have it and told him that if his beliefs and bigotry were such, I could see no further reason for us to remain close. My wife questioned me on whether it was the time to be shedding friends when I was in the middle of a loss and I assured her that I couldn't be a person that considered timing on such an ethical choice. I also told her that this "friend" I'd be losing had never been truly close, that we were connected more by our mutual entertainment factor than by trust and real love. He would never have been the one that I'd have turned to when I really needed someone there.

If anything my friend's death showed me through the loss what standard to expect out of my close acquaintances and friends. In spite of the fact that we were worlds apart in so many things, even politically at times, his heart was as big as the sky. I have no illusion that all my future friends will be so giving, but he definitely moved the bar upwards.

ER, I can tell there's more quality, intelligence, and compassion in you than the vast majority of the population of our country. In my mind that makes you a role model and a teacher. By your acts to stand up to your acquaintances you served that role well. If the students don't get it, it's their failing and their loss.

Art