Commentary contributed by Rhonda Glass · Wailuku

We have a right to choose what we want to eat.I just finished reading your editorial, “The Supersize Isle,” in the last issue. Though I agree with you about the alarming proliferation of fast food restaurants and all of the rubbish they seem to generate on this island, I cannot agree with the notion of local, state or federal government creating legislation to control (or ban outright) these legitimate businesses.
“This is such a serious problem that some believe the federal government should intervene.” Sentiments like this smack of out-and-out socialism. We need less government “intervention” in our lives, and more personal accountability for our own choices and actions. People who smoke are fully aware of the inherent health risks. It is not up to society or the government to try and force militant anti-smoking laws upon them in an effort to make the smokers stop.
In like manner, no one is forcing anyone else to eat fast food all the time. If people choose to go there, it is their right to do so! At least for the time being, this is still a free country, is it not? There are plenty of alternatives out there to pick from. With all of the health and nutrition information available today, there is no excuse for people to “blame” fast food restaurants for their own unwillingness to take personal responsibility and refrain from unhealthy eating habits. The majority of fast food places now offer healthier items on their menus, so the lack thereof isn’t even an excuse anymore.
I’m sure you have heard the old adage, “You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make him drink.” There is much truth in that. The government can try to legislate and force healthy lifestyles upon us all, but if somebody wants a greasy, trans-fat-laden hamburger from the Golden Arches Supper Club, they’re going to find a way to get it. I think some people in our society need to stick to minding their own business, instead of constantly getting into everyone else’s and trying to “legislate” behavior modification.