Tyler Clementi Killed Himself

Life is precious. There are so many things to do. There is so much to experience. There is so much life to live. Tyler Clementi was 18 years old at the time of his death. He took his own life. Two of his acquaintances secretly filmed him as he was engaged in homosexual conduct. They then showed his private sexual activity on line. Tyler killed himself because he was devastated due to the fact that he was seen doing what he was doing. No doubt he was ashamed. No doubt he was disappointed in his so-called "friends" who filmed him. I believe homosexuality is morally wrong, but I refuse to hate, mock, discredit or in any way mistreat those who participate in that type of conduct. I cannot stop them. One thing I am convinced of: The majority of reasonable people agree that sexual activity among human beings is private activity. In this case; the privacy of two men was invaded. This, of course is wrong. I hear people clamoring for "sensitivity training" for understanding the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community. I say no. I respond with the importance of teaching all children the importance of respect. Teaching tolerance is not enough. "Tolerance" is a buzz word. It may be considered a goal or an end, but I am persuaded that it is only a part of a bigger picture. The bigger picture being respect for others. An even bigger picture is to teach kindness. But then you enter dangerous territory. You might need to mention religion. What if someone were to teach: "Love your neighbor as you love yourself" in a public school setting. There would be trouble. Why? Because those are the words of the greatest teacher who ever lived. His name is Jesus. If one taught this gem of truth in his/her classroom great results would take place. It can be done. It can be done if wisdom is used. Society is in trouble. The time has come to drown the devil in his own craftiness. There is hope. Especially in the greatest country in the history of humankind.