Judge made hard, but right, decision

Regarding the young man who recently died after a judge sided with him and didn’t force him to have a blood transfusion (“Jehovah’s Witness teen who refused treatment dies,” Nov. 29):

I respectfully disagree that the judge failed this child. It seems to me people are being pretty judgmental toward the aunt and toward their faith.

I think it is vital that people’s wishes pertaining to their religious beliefs be respected. At 14, this young man had strong convictions and was willing to stand for them. That to me is commendable. And it is rare to see these days. People in society are pretty intolerant of people’s religious views and beliefs. They are labled as fanatics and crazy zealots. This is pretty sad and pretty disrespectful. And dangerous.

We can’t be taking away people’s religious freedom; that is not right. I think it’s sad that this boy died so early, but I do respect his wishes and would hope people can be less judgmental of religious wishes in the future. Think how you would feel, each and every one of you, if you had a religious conviction that was being denied you because of society’s views. I don’t think you would appreciate others telling you what to do simply because their beliefs didn’t agree with yours. That is an absolute infringement on a person, and goes against what our Constitution stands for.

I think the judge made a hard decision and I would hope people respect him for it.

Tami Williams

Marysville