We are all deserving | LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Published 12:09 pm Wednesday, July 11, 2012

To the editor:

This is a response to Gary Loverich’s letter of June 5.

Sometimes in our zeal to further our cause or defend our stand on an issue, we forget to put a face to the recipients of our target. Let’s put a face to it – mine.

We are very similar, Gary. We both grew up on Bainbridge Island, as did our parents. We both went to Bainbridge High School. We both graduated and went on to be successful members of society. We are both proud of our community and have served that community in many ways.

We both raised our families here (yep, biological children), we both pay our taxes, we both own our own little piece of paradise on the Island and we both have or have had long term relationships with people we love – relationships that include working full time, making our households run smoothly, help with kids’ homework, being soccer moms, or T-ball parents, and basically being a family. And, we are both members of the same church.

Keeping all these similarities in mind, Gary, which one makes me less of a human being than you? What makes me less deserving of ALL of your rights? Not additional rights, nor special rights, just the same basic rights you have?

I have no animosity toward you for your beliefs. I would just remind you that when we strive to exclude any group, class, or community of people we are excluding very deserving individuals who are just like you – the only difference being with whom we choose to share our life.

Patti Ritchie

Bainbridge Island