I wrote mainly based on my first impressions and some confusion that I had. I wrote to clear up things for myself, and I think I was successful in my mission. I am not here to point the finger at anyone who responded to what I wrote. I wrote on a controversial topic. I knew that when I wrote it.

I was aware of the fact that I was going to be criticized, but I don't think that should stop people from stating how they feel about something. I am not going to retract anything I said prior to this, because those were my opinions.

I had a right to say what I said, as did all of you who responded.

However, the things I said were not intended to hurt, offend or criticize anyone in particular (even though it may have seemed as if it was "pick on sorority" day). The purpose of my editorial was for me to think aloud and raise questions to myself and others here on campus. I wanted feed back because I wanted my questions answered.

I wanted people to think. I never wished to place blame on anyone, or not place blame on anyone for that matter. I was inspired by a seminar that I attended and wanted nothing more than to comment on it. I directly held back some feelings of mine and also let out some indirectly. I do not feel there is anything wrong with that.

I exercise freedom of speech, just as you do. I am not going to attack you for taking a stand for what you believe, however. I respect your opinions. I agree with some of the things you said. I disagree with some of the things you said. It's as easy as that.

That though, is the beauty of written language. You can take things as you wish. The things inferred, or the messages picked out, completely depend on the reader.

Sure, some aspects of literature may lead you to take something more one way than another, but when it comes down to it, it is the reader who makes the final judgment call. We, as readers, choose whether we want to be open-minded or close-minded.

We, as readers, choose whether we think a writer is attacking us personally or just stating an opinion. We, as readers, define a writer's tone. Writers just put it out there for interpretation. You see, writers learn things about themselves and their writing by seeing what others get from it. That was my intention then, as it is now and forever.

So, you and I have different meanings for what we read and what we write. So what? I know that and can accept that. I take responsibility for the fact that there will be people who agree and disagree with what I have to say. But, you see, unlike others, I welcome that.

It is through other people, and other perspectives, that we, as writers and as people, learn and grow.