An apology and a clarification

[adam-machiavelli]

A few years ago, due to my youthful immaturity and desire to get attention, I made a comment suggesting that the convicted terrorists now labeled by the media as the "Toronto 18" should have killed Stephen Harper. Many forumers were understandably concerned, surprised, even scared by this response (Looking back, I'm surprised I didn't get banned!), and one individual declared that he or she would boycott any discussion in which I engaged! While I often express my opinions on this forum in an abrupt and sometimes sensational manner, I quickly realized that that comment was outside the bounds of reasonable discussion. It was a stupid, careless, and damaging comment that would only bring Canadian political discussion closer to its horrific equivalent heard in America.

The reason I didn't apologize immediately was because I thought it would not matter in the long run. However, the comment has been weighing on my conscience. So due to no specific event in particular -simply me maturing and realizing that (especially in planning) it is just as important to maintain good relations with colleagues as it is to hear opinions different from your own, I would like to say that I am sorry if I offended civil people (which I hope is everyone) on this forum. I do not and have never seriously supported the murder of public and private individuals.

I cannot ignore the fact that I said that hurtful comment as it is saved in the depths of cyberspace forever (Considering many journalists' desire to humiliate public figures by publishing past mistakes, I probably won't ever be able to run for public office). However, I hope you can accept my sincere apology and know that it is truthful.

I may not fill my replies with the euphemisms found in typical Canadian discussion intended to cushion us and others from the harsh realities of the truth, but I do support reading, hearing, and writing a wide variety of civil and humane opinions on a wide variety of relevant topics and I hope you all do too.