"On the hunt for a conspiracy theory"
Dear Christian Science Monitor,I agreed wholeheartedly with "On the hunt for a conspiracy theory" until it offhandedly labeled Environmental Illness as a hoax.
When I was well, I taught myself to read, took ballet and gymnastics, and was a published author. Then I turned five, and began a lifetime of pain, throat and viral infections, and months-long bouts of bronchitis. The tissue at my joints was so swelled up that walking gave me huge, visible bruises.
Five years ago, I saw an MD specialized in Environmental Illness. I was cynical and suspicious, as Environmental Illness is often "treated" with unscientific and possibly hazardous placebos. I insisted on being treated scientifically.
Since then, research, prescriptions, physiotherapy, and strict avoidance of a ton of natural and synthetic antagonists have much improved my quality of life. Ten years ago, illness made me quit school. Now, I am running for office, and start an MSc in January.
Environmental Illness is not a "neo-con plot" or a hoax. Lumping it in with other falsehoods is how I got to stay sick for 25 years, and be a drain on society instead of a pillar of it. I am the living contradiction of your intellectual laziness.
Camille Gabrielle Taylor
I read the Monitor often, though I am not a Christian Scientist. It is generally an excellent publication that provides incisive coverage of global issues, and should not be confused with religion-centric magazines like the Watchtower. For its scope, detachment and honesty - it's won seven Pulitzers - it is most like the Economist, and a terrific example of how religion can contribute positively to modern society.
From About Us at csmonitor.com: The idea is that the unblemished truth is freeing (as a fundamental human right); with it, citizens can make informed decisions and take intelligent action, for themselves and for society.
A good goal for all public servants.