GLBTQ

This, and combinations close to it, is a common group of initials. It stands for the following words which may describe a child, co-worker, relative, or friend of ours:

gay

lesbian

bisexual

transgender

questioning

These words do not mean an individual is a predator. They do not mean that the individual is interested in inappropriate "public displays of affection." They are not (or should not be) terms of insult. These labels describe an acknowledgement of what a Higher Power may have instilled in one of his precious creations.

Many battles have been fought and won for rights of segments of the human race. Rights of members of ethnic groups, members of religious beliefs, women, and others have been denied and then gained. One need not say in his heart of hearts "I totally agree with everything you believe and do" in order to be able to say "I totally believe that you have a right to be you, just as I have the right to be me." I urge you to replace any temptation to belittle the GLBTQ population with the overwhelming desire to respect them.