DEMON WRESTLING

Never have I read so touching an article on re-examining one’s prejudice against gays as Jeff Silverman’s “Getting Over It” ( Jan. 30). This chronicle of institutionalized homophobia gets right to the heart of bigotry approved. I’ve been a homosexual for 72 years, which adds up to a lot of prejudice experienced by me in every facet of my life. It’s uplifting and inspiring to know that Silverman has arrived at the conclusion that “love doesn’t have a gender.”

FRANK MAPSON

Long Beach

While I agree with Silverman that we should be sensitive to the struggles encountered by gay men and that we should fight bigotry, I disagree with his reasons. He quotes the old and trite: People are defined by their behavior, fear of right-wing extremism, and inane quotes like “love doesn’t have a gender.” All this to have us accept a lifestyle that is morally wrong. It is unacceptable to deny anyone the dignity that he or she deserves as a human being, because all are created in the image of God. But the granting of dignity should not be confused with acceptance of behavior.

DAN WALKER

Santa Barbara

“Getting Over It”?

Never!

FRANK T. MURPHY

Glendale

Perhaps we all now can be inspired to deal with our own demons, those concerning homosexuality and those based on any and all prejudices. That is what Silverman’s article is about. He has shown us that we all have fears to confront and a “closet,” in some form or other, to come out of.

CHRISTOPHER DRAKE

Lawndale