Madam, - Well done to Emily O'Reilly for hitting the nail on the head when she asks: "Who or what is the real us?" (November 6th). I can wholeheartedly identify with her when she writes of loutish behaviour on the sports field, punching someone's lights out, the incontinent use of bad language, the reduction of seminaries or convents to advertising fodder for the property sections.
Ms O'Reilly's astute observation show us up for what we are. The reason, sadly, is a total pack of respect for persons, places or things. Our churches are nearly empty nowadays and generally attended by older citizens and poorer people rather than the younger generation and the well heeled. Sadly it is not realised that we all need to pray to our God for a sense of self-worth, self-dignity and self-respect. Then we may stop being a "Velcro" society adhering to the false god of materialism at any price - including handbags costing over €5,000! - Yours, etc.,
BRENDA MORGAN,
Asgard Park,
Howth,
Co Dublin.
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Madam, - Emily O'Reilly's address in Ennis was a treat to read and should be made compulsive reading in schools and homes throughout the land. Well done Emily. - Yours, etc.,
MARY KEOGH,
The Cottage,
Kinnegad,
Co Westmeath.