Letter: MOTHER LAWRENCE NOT PERFECT

This letter is in response to the people who have written to denigrate Debby Bloom for her very appropriate letter to the editor regarding Mother Lawrence's vocal opposition to the Gay/Straight Alliance at Dimond High School.

Mother Lawrence helps feed and clothe poor people and deserves respect and admiration for her work. However, it is not blasphemy to point out that she also is self-righteous and hypocritical, professing her love for humankind while displaying intolerance toward those who do not fit her description of worthiness.

She spouts the usual sanctimonious drivel, "I love the sinner but hate the sin." This is the religious right doublespeak that allows one to practice the most odious behavior toward others while keeping one's halo intact. It is gross arrogance to make judgments about decent, caring people under the misguided belief that one has some special knowledge from God.

Attacking the establishment of a club that promotes understanding for gay teens is evil. Many of these young people commit suicide because they can't talk to anyone (including their parents). The teens who seek to accept their differences with humility and good grace are showing a maturity far greater than most adults.

If the gay bashers could only get their minds off genitals and personal relationships, they might learn the true meaning of unconditional love and charity.

I do not wish to diminish Mother Lawrence's accomplishments, but neither do I accept the premise that she walks on water. Those who dare to disagree with her simplistic views are disapointed to find how quickly she can become hostile, rude, vituprative and anything but loving. Her charitable work has been appreciated, rewarded and glorified, but that should not be used as a vehicle to spread ignorance, bigotry and hatred.

Dolores G. Weiler - Anchorage