Readers' forum: We're all imperfect

In recent days, there has been much debate over the penalties for students who violate the BYU Honor Code. As with all other honor codes, it is a standard to strive for. However, we are all sinners. Where do we draw the line between one person's "sin" versus another person's "transgression" versus another person's "momentary lapse in judgment"?

To be sure, I applaud those people who can truly live up to high standards voluntarily. But I am turned off by snobbery and phoney self-righteous indignation. Promises and vows voluntarily assumed should be faithfully adhered to. But there must always be a little room for corrective action.

Unless a person is allowed some means to make amends for failings there is estrangement without hope of reintegration or restoration to remove the stain, stigma or blemish. Let us keep our own actions in-check, first, without being too scornful. Each of us is only an inch or two away from sinful behavior — depending on our choice of definitions and what kind of yardstick we measure our actions by.

James A. Marples

Provo