I attended the University of Hawaii in 1968, when a tenured instructor was fired. He wrote in defense of communism as a better way of life, in opposition to university policy. Mr. Nielsen and this professor were dismissed because they went against the universities' policies they had read and signed. They both understood the consequences of their actions.

A simple comparison: If you shoplift from this store then you will be prosecuted. If you write publicly against the policies of the university then you will be released from your job. Both men knew the results if they chose to go forward with their actions.

I agree with exercising the freedom to choose, but Mr. Nielsen and his supporters seem to have forgotten that you are free to choose whatever you want, but you are not free to choose the consequences of that choice. Both men made a choice, and then they also wanted to choose the consequences, knowing the outcome.

As a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I say we should realize one important thing. This is the church of Jesus Christ and we are his disciples. When the prophet speaks, debate ends! You may call us brainwashed or just faithful Christians who choose to follow our Savior no matter the consequences.

George H. Peterson Jr.

Nephi