In times like these with the swine flu on a rampage, the economy in shambles and fires ravaging our state, that what happened on Sept. 7th to William James Rice is just plain odd.

According to the Thousand Oaks Acorn, Rice, a 65-year-old Newbury Park resident, was driving when he spotted a demonstration. He pulled over and got out of his car to see what was going on. After realizing it was a health care rally, Rice said he returned to his car where he was approached by a man.

Rice said the man called him an “idiot” and in defense Rice attempted to punch the man, but instead allegedly landed his finger in the man’s mouth. The man, who authorities are still seeking for, bit off Rice’s pinky-finger from the bottom knuckle down.

Rice said he tookhimself to the hospital, which was a mile away from the incident.

A witness retrieved the detached pinky, but in the end, Rice opted not to have the digit reattached as the risk of infection was too high.

America is on the verge of major health care reform and some individuals just can’t seem to accept that fact.

Many believe that what people fear most is the unknown, and for some Americans, this idea of health care reform and the public option is downright scary.

Just because one fears what’s to come doesn’t give anyone the right to promote anarchy, disorder and blatant cannibalism.

Thousand Oaks Acorn reported that Rice, who is covered by Medicare, said he was satisfied with the care he received after the events at the rally.

While debates over social issues are very much a part of the political process, the idea that health care reform will turn our country into a socialist state or is the next step toward fascism is ridiculous.

The plan that President Obama is proposing is simply an improvement to the system, requiring no changes from those covered under their employer, Medicare, Medicaid and Veteran’s Affairs.

Also, insurers cannot be denied coverage based on previous illnesses or family medical history.

Regardless of your stance on whether or not health care needs to be reformed, as a citizen of the U.S. you should have respect for fellow citizens with different views.

As a country, we should be focusing on what is best for our society and not just what will benefit oneself.