Letters: Truth is, people can change

I WAS born in Baltimore, and the last time I cared about most pro sports was when the Colts played there.

So I ask indulgence in writing about Michael Vick.

But I do know about people and their capacity to change. I know that city kids desperately need role models to show them that change is possible. And that one of the strongest motivations for change is to be someone your kids are not shamed by.

And I also know that no one is ever going to find a cruelty gene. Someone who is just plain mean has been treated just plain mean, often in ways he or she doesn't recognize. That's just the way things are.

Change can work when

you're brave enough not to excuse cruel behavior, to people as well as animals. Then you make yourself be different. For those capable of the horrific acts that Vick was imprisoned for, change isn't going to come easy. You have to own up to the fact that your behavior has been beyond horrific, and practice something different until you can feel it in yourself. With enough practice, change from the inside can happen.

Those who hate that Vick is now one of ours, or just hate him period, should think about what change for him can mean to some of our city kids who don't know they can turn their own lives around. Think, too, of the time and money Vick will be able to donate to those who can protect all who are helpless and victimized, not only animals.

I don't bet much, but I've seen hundreds of people change before my very eyes. So I'm betting on Vick.

SaraKay Smullens

Philadelphia

Auto suggestion

Rep. Murphy was eager to help Fred Beans in Doylestown to save his auto business.

But is he willing to step up for other car businesses in his district, like Peruzzi, Reedman Toll, Dieckhaus?

Charles & Rosemarie Boyle

Falls Township