I have a story to tell.
This story has no literary merit and will not attract the attention of
Hollywood. However, I think this tale deserves the particular attention
of the residents of Burbank (and, perhaps, even the nation).
So please come with me as I spin this yarn of action, intrigue and, of
course, the hatred of American freedoms.
Apparently, there is a cluster of individuals within our city walls
who hate the freedoms afforded us for simply being born on American soil.
I can't come to any other conclusion given the events that have recently
transpired here. Let me explain.
A little over a week ago, the Burbank Leader published my commentary
dealing with the issue of the Burroughs High School mascot. While I was
certain this article would draw criticism and controversy (as opinions
tend to do), I was secure in the knowledge that all Americans valued
their right to a freedom of speech and ideas.
I believed that none of my fellow citizens could possibly take their
lifestyles for granted, especially at this point in history, when so many
factions around the world are aggressively trying to take these freedoms
from us. After all, the beauty of America truly does lie in its diversity
-- of culture, of religion, of race and of thought.
Unfortunately, I soon discovered that some of our neighbors do not
share my respect for our nation's diversity. This discovery first came in
the form of a large nail stuck into my car's tire. I found the nail and
the flat tire the day after my commentary was published.
Not wanting to jump to conclusions, I dismissed the timing as
incidental and went about my business. The next morning as I walked
through my garage, I found that my car had been violated yet again. This
time someone had decided to wrench my side-view mirror off the door, with
the mounting bracket snapped in half. Examining the damage, there could
be no doubt that the act was intentional.
I still did not want to believe that I was being targeted for simply
expressing an opinion. So I saw no harm in sending in another commentary
responding to another reader's article. As you can probably guess, my
poor car was assaulted once more.
The passenger-side window was completely shattered, the result of a
strategically thrown rock. Even more disconcerting was the fact that
nothing appears to have been stolen, yet the culprits rummaged through my
personal papers as if they were looking for something in particular.
Of course, it is only my opinion (which, I am proud to say, I still
have the freedom to express), but it seems more than likely that the
transgressions taken on my vehicle are a direct result of exercising my
rights as an American.
I can't say that I agree with everything that happens in this country,
but I will tell you that I am grateful to live in a society where freedom
of expression is allowed.
However, if you live in Burbank, this freedom apparently comes with a
price. In my case, this price has taken the form of new auto parts and a
wife who is now fearful of her own community.
BEN SMALLWOOD
Burbank
