HIGHEST AND BEST

  One of my children (I won't say which one) was doing something that I considered inappropiate. I asked him why he was doing it and the response was "Because I can". Now I have actually gotten that response more than once and never find it amusing.  I usually respond with a motherly, "I dont like it, stop it".  Sometimes with results and sometimes not.
  Now this week, with all the Mosque turmoil going on, once again I am hearing the "Because I Can" echoing through the debate. So I thought I would just sit down and write my take on the situation.
  I think there is a confusion going on between rights and responsibility. Sure, the Muslims have a "right" to have their Mosque two blocks from ground zero if they wish. Sure, some would say Iman Rauf is a nice guy and out to promote a new age Muslim center with the best of intentions.  But is it the "best"and most appropriate thing to do.
  When I used to appraise Real Estate,  the main goal was to find the "Highest and Best Use" of a property to give it its valuation. Now a property may have many uses, commerical, residential, single family, multi-family. But there was one value that was the best and highest value for that property. And that was the value an appraiser would seek. Now a buyer might have a different value in mind and he and the lender could squabble over the value and lending rules. But my point is that sometimes having a right to something doesn't always equate with the proper thing to do. Or the moral thing to do.
  Americans tend to throw the freedom and liberty flag around anytime they don't get their way. The mentality is that, Hey I have my rights!  But is it the "best" thing to do. Will it serve the community, the nation, others? Or is it just self serving?  We see that in our nation daily. The party politics gridlock that is paralyzing our country from moving forward. Our politicians who won't make decisions based on what is best for the country, but what will serve their party or serve their re-election bid. And on and on...

  Mr. Rauf, the ball is in your court. Put the Mosque in the spot "because you can". You have the right to. Or consider moving it to a more acceptable site. It might just be the healing salve New York has been looking for. It might just heal some wounds that are open and raw. It would be a great gesture and show the Muslins really do care about Americans. Its your move....