Editor,

Thank-you for the article and your editorial outlining the insensitive way Whidbey General’s administration dealt with the Park/Talman sculpture.

I worked at Whidbey General for  23 years and, like many, have fond memories of this historically significant work. My initial curiosity and turned to appreciation after learning its history. The sculpture was a celebration of Whidbey Island getting its own hospital and all those who contributed to that goal. Its removal, under obviously spurious justification, demonstrates a lack of sensitivity for all the efforts and generosity that went into that achievement. It also demonstrates a sad disregard for a sense of place. That gentle, unobtrusive sculpture helped define this place. It was a root.

I wonder if the decision makers at Whidbey General know it exists within a national park created to celebrate the history of this special area? Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. The destruction of Oak Harbor’s old oak is another example. Many of the problems within our society, especially those environmental, are because of a lack of understanding of place. As my Native American friends say, “You colonists act like you still have one foot on the boat.”

Aren’t we always looking for greener pastures? Heck we are even looking to the stars as an escape from his poorly used planet. Have you ever really thought what it would be like living in a plastic bubble on a lifeless planet? Really?

It is said that a tree without strong roots will not withstand the storm. The callous destruction of the Park/Talman sculpture represents a cultural pathology now living out its dire consequences. As Thomas Berry said, “Everything is either sacred or desecrated.”

GARY PIAZZON

Coupeville