preference. Many famous authorities are still in disagreement about it. I think it would be more to the point if you tried to help your friends to also understand people who are different'."
It was a thoughtful boy who left my house that day, Pam. I have reason to think that he did talk to his friends I hope so. It's the adults that discourage me. They very gilbly say "Live and let live," but do they? No! They attack anything different. They are afraid of the unknown. They are afraid to venture beyond that invisible wall afraid to meet the people who dwell there. Occasionally you may find a few with a bit more courage, but most of the se are beset with that commonest of sins--indifference. How, then, I ask you, do you break down a wall composed of apathy and ignorance! The solution must lie with the youth of today who are the men and women of tomorrow. That's a tired old cliche I know, but nonetheless true.
You see, Pam, Ellis and Rusty have now opened their door wide to the neighborhood's "tough" teens, who are also seeking understanding and acceptance. The going isn't always easy, but there is a growing trust gradually developing on both sides. I hopefully wait for the day when parents will follow their children's footsteps to that door, and welcomo their neighbors, Ellis and Rusty--an asset to any community.
Your loving friend, Joannie
ON GIVING A GOLD HEART
DEAR NECROMANCER, MY BETTER PART
LET THIS SELF, BASE METAL, THIS SPURIOUS ONE,
IN YOUR LOVE'S CRUCIBLE
A RARITY BECOME,
TRANSFORM MY LADEN, LEADEN HEART,
I CHANGE BENEATH YOUR GAZE,
I GLEAM, I GLOW.
THIS TINY GOLDEN HEART,
LET IT GLEAM SO.
R. A. LORENCE
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