There are many racial and ethnic groups in this country that aren’t indifferent to these things and, as a consequence, they have managed to become successful members of society. Within any group, rich or poor, people generally succeed by their own commitment and effort.

I would like to extend my deepest sympathy and respect to the family of Brian Moore. Officer Moore, 25 years old, is the fifth New York City police officer to be shot while on duty since December, when two officers were killed in an ambush in Brooklyn. (Wall Street Journal, May 5.) He was taken off life support two days after he was shot in his unmarked patrol car while on patrol.

Obama is right that there are consequences to one’s actions. There are consequences to blaming the government and society for your lack of success, and there are consequences to being indifferent to things that matter.

Sam Stites

Durango