DIANNE FEINSTEIN

Regarding “Will Dianne Feinstein Play in Pacoima?” by Keith Love (Feb. 25): My father, who was a minister in San Francisco, died suddenly in 1979. He was prominent in the Bay Area, so there were politicians lining up to speak at his funeral. My family did not want to see a three-ring circus, so we made it clear that no politicians would be allowed to speak or participate in the service. Although our wishes for the most part were respected, I can still remember seeing these elected officials standing conspicuously throughout the church.

As my family and I sat waiting in the limousine after the services, a woman came to the car, leaned in, touched my mother’s hand and spoke to her softly. She shared her experience of recently losing a husband. Even through tear-stained eyes I remember the look of true compassion and caring on Dianne Feinstein’s face. We hadn’t known until that moment that she was at the church. None of the other politicians even bothered to say anything to my mother.

I could sleep easily at night knowing that there is a person in the governor’s mansion who is not just a politician, but a real person.

SHERRI LYNN FORD

Los Angeles