Consider the source - An opinion

Submitted by Samuel Jefferson Kennard

March 8, 2016 8:10 a.m.

Speaking of “opinions”: A belief or judgment not based on facts or knowledge, but what seems true or valid in one’s own mind.

Although everyone is equally entitled to hold and express their opinions, thanks to our Constitutional First Amendment rights to freedom of expression, the opinions themselves are often not equal in their relative importance, correctness or validity.

Some opinions are simply uninformed and ignorant; others are biased, cloaked in innuendo and subjective, while others are more factual and objective, but still do not rise to the standards of being facts.

Too often I observe, page filling and relatively substance less, pap and dross of opinion letters that occupy the space of potentially more important and informative unpublished opinions.

When considering and weighing the opinions of others, always consider the source. Is the source, trustworthy, informed, objective, and credible? Are their opinions based on facts, experience, education or subject expertise? If the answers to these questions are yes, then the opinions expressed are most likely true and valid.

If in doubt, always check the facts presented or use subject experts to validate claims. Biased and untrue opinions must be confronted with facts before they are used for poor decision- making, possibly, resulting in harm.

Editor's Note: Samuel Jefferson Kennard's Florida roots go back to the early nineteenth century. His pioneer ancestor signed the Territory of Florida's First Constitution in 1838 and others have lived continuously on Amelia Island for 150 years. The great grandson of a Cumberland Sound pilot family, Kennard continues a proud tradition of advocacy for a viable Port of Fernandina. Kennard stated, "Nassau County, and Fernandina Beach need a working port. It's part of our rich heritage and who we are."

Kennard is founding chairman of Stand for Amelia Island, Inc., a not for profit State of Florida Corporation dedicated to advocating solutions for important issues affecting the general public welfare of Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island and Nassau County.

Kennard was graduated from the University of Georgia and attended Harvard Business School executive development programs. Kennard is married and he and his wife, Karin live on Amelia Island.