Pope Francis’s kindness, compassion set the mold for Cardinals to follow (Letters)

Pope Francis set the mold for future popes

Re: “Pope Francis dies,” April 22 news story

I am saddened by the death of Pope Francis. He was the epitome of kindness, compassion, love and common sense. He not only preached these things but lived it. A perfect example of what the world needs now. While there will never be another like him, I hope the Cardinals are inspired to pick the next pope who will also live and inspire these traits, and not a Pope who is divisive and only preaches to dogma.

Marcia Murphy, Centennial

Sand Creek memorial shows wisdom to learn from the past

Re: “Legislature approves memorial for grounds of Colorado Capitol,” April 15 news story

It is an especially proud day to be a Coloradan. The Colorado legislature made the wise decision to install a sculpture at the Colorado state Capitol to memorialize the Sand Creek Massacre.

Too often, people don’t admit their mistakes. I believe that once you understand what you have done wrong, you are on the path to recovery. As the old adage goes, those who do not learn from history are condemned to repeat it. Uniquely, in this vote, the wisdom to learn from the past was universal in the legislature, the decision was not political, and the measure was adopted unanimously.

I hope it is healing to the surviving generations of people that the state of Colorado wants our new state monument to bear testament to the massacre. It demonstrates a hope that we will commit to do our best to prevent similar tragedies going forward. This statue represents our determination not to use violence to solve problems.

I am delighted for the people that were here before us, and I am delighted for people here today because we have shown that we have the ability to come together, a collaboration based on wisdom and learning from the past.

Marcel Arsenault, Boulder

Make health insurance accessible to small businesses

Re: “Plan to cap some medical bills will cause health care crisis,” March 22 guest commentary

As the owner of a brokerage firm, I see firsthand how my small business clients have scaled back their health plan offerings due to high costs. I support House Bill 1174 because it would lower health care costs for Colorado small businesses by establishing reimbursement limits for prices paid to certain hospitals through the small group market.

Many entrepreneurs can’t afford to offer robust benefits anymore, so they’re turning to less conventional methods like stipends for employees to purchase their own health coverage. Yet, seasoned employees want to work for a company that can provide quality benefits, which affects small businesses’ ability to recruit and retain workers. The high cost of health insurance, therefore, prevents small businesses from competing and growing.

I urge the legislature to pass HB 1174 to make health care more accessible and affordable for Colorado small businesses and their employees.

Samantha Allbritton, Centennial

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