Classic example of blind follower

YES, MANNY Pacquiao invoked “common sense” in describing gay couples, lesbians and transgenders as “worse than animals” (“Pacquiao likens gays to animals, draws flak,” Front Page, 2/17/16). Later on, he reportedly apologized for his remarks but still affirmed his stand “by my belief that I’m against same-sex marriage because of what the Bible says.”

The way I see it, it’s clear that Pacquiao’s stand is based more on the Bible rather than on his conscience—a classic example of a blind follower who has totally submitted in subservience to his religion’s teachings without first satisfying himself with a full understanding of the merits of what he has been led to believe.

For this (honorable?) congressman’s information, it’s not the fault of LGBTs (lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgenders), nor is it their choice, that their sexual orientation is different from us. Furthermore, just because Mother Nature made them what they are doesn’t make them any less human, undeserving of the same respect and understanding we give others. Why most, if not all, religious organizations condemn LGBTs is beyond comprehension especially because religions also tell us that God is not only loving and full of mercy but is also understanding. But, then again, knowing that the Bible is merely man’s interpretation of God’s teachings (which is probably the reason for the different versions of the Bible), I can only surmise that in their zeal in translating God’s words, human prejudice got in the way.

To Pacquiao, the senatorial candidate: Think, man. Does your conscience honestly believe that you are smart enough to be a senator? Or did others coax you into running for the Senate just because of your widely recognized and popular name which might advance their own political ambitions?

For the sake of giving this country a chance to move forward, please, let somebody else really qualified take your place in the senatorial slate. I urge you not because of any teaching in the Bible but because I care for this country. You’re great as a boxer, but a good politician you are not! Your strong belief in condemning the LGBTs (and Heaven knows who/what else your Bible tells you!) only shows how narrow-minded you are, and how arrogant you can be.

You can serve your country better by making way for someone really fit—not only physically but also morally and intellectually—to be a senator.
—JUANITO T. FUERTE,[email protected]