In reference to the commentary, "Relax, it's just God" (April 6), I must admit I used to feel exactly the same way about discussing religion.
Then soon and with deeper thoughts and the study of the elements of history, it is quite evident there have been disturbing conflicts between groups ever since man inhabited the earth, and I honestly believe it will never cease. But first please, just a few comments about my background which I hope will give you a better understanding of my whys and wherefores.
After I graduated from Towson State Teachers College in 1942, rather than be drafted I immediately enlisted in the U.S. Navy where I soon received my Naval Reserve commission and spent eight years in uniform, serving five in World War II including more than two aboard the aircraft carrier, the USS Enterprise from 1943-45, seeing action in 13 major engagements starting westward from the Marshall-Gilbert Islands across the Pacific to the Philippines which involved one period of six months at sea without setting foot on dry land.
When heavily involved in battle, your mind is constantly in a personal state of turmoil. Near the close of the war, I spent several months as a communication liaison officer with the British Pacific Fleet which was a most exciting experience. After returning from the war, I accepted employment in the McDonogh School as the head of the middle school where I stayed for 52 years with the firm conviction that the education of the world's youth would ultimately be the salvation of our civilization.
As a Protestant, I soon discovered that a continuous helping to your fellow man is the most satisfying neighborly action on the face of the Earth. But it left me with my continual nagging question, "Whom do I declare is my God?" This bothered me for several years until suddenly it hit me one day: In the examination of all of my experiences here on earth, just what or who was always present?
The answer was Mother Nature. Whether at land or at sea, she was always present and had the last word.
Yes, Mother Nature is my God and in her, I can put my trust whether I approve of her actions or not.
Quinton D. Thompson, Towson