The Aftermath of my letter to the editor on Sean Penn and the Oscars

As some of you know, on Friday, March 27th, a letter that I wrote was published in the Chicago Tribune's Voice of the People. Based on the responses that I have received from both friends as well as those that have never met me, my position certainly leans in the minority. I'd say that at least 80% of those I don't know not only disagree with my position, but vehemently so. With regard to my friends, its about a 50/50 split. Accordingly, although it's a small subset of people who responded, the overwhelming sentiment thus far is:

1. If I don't like what people are saying, I should turn it off.
2. I should get a DVR and fast forward through that stuff and commercials.
3. Sean Penn should be my moral compass and that everything that he said was appropriate and relevant given the award he received.
4. I am bigoted.
5. I believe in censorship.
6. The Oscars are an appropriate venue given its size and scope to deliver any message that an actor or actress sees fit.

I was somewhat surprised by the overall sentiment. I've also realized that perception is reality, and that the intent of what I wrote may not have been completely realized. Overall, it thus far has been a very good learning experience for me.