The My View article by Kristin L. Kirschner (“Literature fumbles a tough lesson,” May 7) was interesting, well-written and thought-provoking.
However, the use of the word “tricks” in connection with Andrea Bocelli was not appropriate. Learning to read with one’s fingers is not a trick. The word “ability” would have been more suitable.
— Phyllis D. Smith, Chicago
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES
My thanks to Barbara Mahany (Passages: “In the beginning…”, May 14) for reminding me why the nation celebrates Mother’s Day. Although it has been well over 30 years since I brought a newborn home from the hospital, her sensitive, evocative story vividly re-created the intense joys and paralyzing terrors of parenthood. The young couple profiled in the story is quickly learning that parenting is a challenge but the rewards are tremendous.
I look forward to the next article in this engaging, beautifully written series.
— Lynne Samuels, Deerfield
DEAR DAUGHTER
With reference to Joanne Trestrail’s Q&A on being a good daughter (“Proper distance keeps a daughter close,” April 9), I would like to add that the exquisite relationship that is possible for a mother and daughter — and as it has been in my experience — is nourished by an open affection that is supportive and noncritical of the girl child from infancy through adulthood.
Be generous with loving embraces, kisses, compliments and respect. This tender love will sustain in some of the critical moments in growing up and through adulthood.
Talk about love and hold up as examples women of character, love, accomplishment and fidelity.
— Mary Patricia Blyth, Chicago
A BANE FOR BIKERS
I think Bob Condor missed a very important point when it comes to why more people don’t bicycle to work (“Put your mettle to the pedal and bike to work,” May 21). It has nothing to do with bike racks or getting sweaty — at least not for me. I live in the suburbs, and my work place is slightly less than 5 miles away. An ideal biking distance, you would think. Except there is no safe way for me to get there. I would have to travel on a street where cars and trucks are whizzing by at 45 to 55 m.p.h.
I have been in many university towns with extensive bike paths, and if there were such things here, I would ride my bike to work. But I am not willing to risk life and limb riding unprotected on a busy thoroughfare.
Bike lanes are what you should be promoting.
— S. Ruch, Cyberspace
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UP NEXT
Do you think adults who serve alcohol to teens should be held liable for any subsequent damages?
BACKGROUND: Illinois state Rep. Tom Dart (D-Chicago) and state Sen. Patrick J. O’Malley (R-Palos Park) will co-sponsor a Child Safety Act bill next session that allows civil suits against adults who serve alcohol illegally to adolescents younger than 18 years old. This “social host liability” legislation is aimed at preventing teen drinking that results in death and serious bodily injury.
Send your response to Chicago Tribune Family section, 5th Floor Features, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611, or e-mail us at ctc-family@tribune.com.
