NASTY ECHOES

I must confess that I was quite taken aback to find my letter in print in the Neo-Nasty letters section, and on reflection feel a deep shame and a desire to apologize publicly on one point. I apologize for my reference to the U.S. as a second-rate nation. Nothing could be farther from the truth. With all its faults, there is no country better. My tantrum certainly got the better of me.

I fear though, that a continuing surrender to despair, cynicism and the gospel of greed will ultimately undo the work of centuries, and the hopes and dreams of this and future generations. I am sometimes harshest on those I love most.

Again, my apologies.

JESSE SILVER

Northridge