As a white woman, I am very aware of my “white” privledge and use it to bring awareness to others. I am of one of three white woman who volunteeers my time for the North County African American Women’s Association raising funds for scholaships for young local African American girls for college. I receive many interesting responses when soliciting funds from surprise that I am not black, to quizical looks of “what?”. Usually I have to repeat my introduction. Race is an issue in this political race, even if it is a silent undercurrent of daily topics. Obama should not be held accountable for what Rv. Wright spoke as I cannot be accountable for what my forefathers did to the black race. I grew up in Florida where racism was abound being one of the first white children to be bused to an “all black” school. This was in the early 70’s. I was allowed to drink at the water fountain, but my friends, both black, cuban and carribean, weren’t. I was given school books while my poor friends of colored were not. I understand Racism. I hope that others can see Obama as a man of high worth and purpose and can let this religious issue pass.

As a Marriage Family Therapist who counsels on infidelity I suggest counseling before either party makes a quick decisive decision. No matter if you do end up in divorce issues need to be addressed, understood so that they won’t be repeated. Anger, Shame, Guilt, mistrust must be confronted and each individual must address their values, morals, faith and hope. The goal is to understand what led to the affair and not to repeat the pattern. Denial is the biggest sunglasses that people tend to wear…..Remove them and address the situation, then make a decision

E. Spitzer appears to be arrogant, narcissitic, selfish and a tryant. Women who are attracted to these men, often times overlook these traits and believe they see a man of confidence. To the women she feels needed, validated and important. Spitzer spent the last 10 years prosecuting those who fell before his own moral values, yet he particiapted in what he thought he was fighting. He had no friends, no allies, no support and yet Silda stood beside him. She looked awlful, but she had a choice. She did not stand there for her children but for her own personal needs. A woman who stands for her children, stands to proctect them, not join in humiliating them. Silda appeared truly lost, confused and dazed yet made it to the 2nd day more coifed and stoic than the first. Determination…I hope she uses it for her future. I wish her and all women a road to identity and self worth. Trish Vernazza