Woman should have gentle heart
I refer to the letter from Wati Abdulgani Lady, please restrain yourself in your paper of Nov. 20, 1998. Differences of opinion in society are a common phenomenon that should be appreciated or even respected, if democracy is to be upheld.
However, it seems to me that we still have to learn to live a democratic life, i.e. to honor other people's views. To force one's opinion on others or act as if one holds an absolute truth is indeed contrary to the very principles of democracy. This is purely my own point of view.
Please forgive me, but in my opinion, you are still immature in agreeing to disagree and hence you still have to learn what democracy is all about. You firmly hold that "the student movements are genuine." You feel disappointed and sad over the Nov.16 "talk-show" program on TVRI, in which most participants alleged that the student demonstrations were financed by certain groups who had political motivation and the present student demonstrations have become fashionable.
Whether the allegation is true or not, I personally respect both viewpoints, and I will just wait and see which proves to be right. The student movements demanding total reforms are still going on and are supported by the people at large.
That you have a different point of view to Mrs. Siti Hartati Murdaya is fair, and I greatly appreciate that. You also reminded Mrs. Murdaya that during the New Order era, her husband's business success had resulted from close links with the power holder. Then you postulated that in this fragile situation, women and their families can also become a target of allegations, the fact of which has yet to be proven.
It is far from ethical and it is not a reflection of a true mother to accuse another mother of doing something in a slanderous manner. We should be more appreciative and accommodating instead of assaulting each other. Furthermore a mother should have a gentle heart and do away with slanderous statements, show no hate, for this is the true nature of the woman.
OKA DIPUTHERA
Jakarta