SIR: I refer to the article 'Gays are threat to family life' (April 20). Being a lesbian myself, I just felt I had to write this letter as I am so angry at comments made by Mr Tom Jones.

What are the "certain issues" you want gay people to face, Mr Jones? There are no "certain issues" when it comes to being gay.

It's no wonder gay people find it so hard to come out to their friends and family these days. I was lucky in that respect, as I had no objections from anyone; not that it would have made me deny my sexuality and pretend to be 'straight'.

Being gay is not about making a choice. It's who you are. I know lots of gays and lesbians who say that their life would be a lot easier and less stressful if they were 'straight'. Do you really think that what you say will either help gay people or convince them who they are is wrong! You are more likely to upset and depress them because we're so-called not "normal". What is "normal" anyway?

Homosexuality has been around for years. If you say that God doesn't recognise a gay lifestyle, the so-called 'Creator of Everything', then why does a gay lifestyle exist? He created everything, didn't He?

Do you think that, because I am gay, I shouldn't have any rights? Do you think I should have a child? Maybe you don't but, believe me, Mr Jones, I can think of thousands of people in this world who don't deserve children at all. Here you are moaning that gays are "undermining family life" when there are parents out there abusing their own children. They are the ones undermining family life.

Narrow-minded people like you are just as bad as the 'queer bashers' who can't accept differences. They use their fists, you use your mouth, both have the same consequences. Gay people suffer once again.

Caroline Smith

Lee Lane, Horwich

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