July 29, 2001

Subject: our lady
Date: Sun, 29 Jul 2001 16:23:10 -0500
From: " " <wisanakelt@earthlink.net>
To: almalopez@earthlink.net

Dear Ms. Lopez,
 
    My current visit to your website was spurred by a round table discussion I viewed on the local public broadcasting station in my area. First, let me state that I too see the Virgin very much as you do. In fact this perception of the Virgin long since pushed me from the halls of the church. Yet I have found ways to pay homage to the strength, beauty and honor that the Virgin represents to me. Her essence is with me as I interact with the world around me, teach my child, and love my family. Your work has at long last given me a glimpse that I am not alone in these beliefs and I thank you for having the courage and conviction to act upon your beliefs. I ask that you do not become discouraged under the current torrent of negative criticism that you are now receiving. It is difficult to change people perceptions because too many people see change as negative. The Church has a long history of persecution when one challenges their dogma and icons. Examples of this can be seen with historical figures such as Joan of Arc, Galileo and others. Yet the truth and enlightenment of their ideas were not oppressed and they still impact the world and society today. Within my sphere of associates, friends and family, that we all have a similar views as you do. 

And it is my hope that persons such as yourself and others continue to forge ahead with these views so that perhaps our daughters and their daughters will have the opportunity to achieve full equality and peace with their brothers.
 
Sincerely,
E. M. Swindle