The Editor, Sir:

I was recently given the task of preparing a commentary on a topical issue to satisfy one of my course requirements. I commented on your Sunday Gleaner headline article 'Jacket doesn't fit'. It was well received so I hereby submit this commentary which you may also find of interest.

Honestly, I read most of this article with amusement. This was my reaction as a woman because in our society, it seems to be quite acceptable for men to father children with scant regard for anyone's feelings. The women involved are often expected 'to get along' and if they don't, are frowned upon.

Recently, a male acquaintance of mine asked two of his baby mothers to shelter at his house during the passage of Hurricane Dean. His attitude was that they either take it or leave it because his house was more secure than theirs. From my observation, this type of attitude is portrayed by many males with pride and satisfaction, having 'woman here, woman there, woman every-where, and gwaan like (dem) don't care'. Well, the shoe is now on the other foot and men will probably begin to feel the hurt and humiliation which often comes with infidelity.

My amusement, however, was only short-lived. The fact is, the adult male and female are not the only ones affected when the 'Jacket doesn't fit'. Unfortunately, innocent, impressionable children are affected too; they are scarred, sometimes very deeply. These scars left by adults' sexual choices often take a very long time to heal and sometimes not at all. Children also have to deal with the humiliation, the hurt, the ridicule and the rejection.

I am, etc.,

CAROL RHODEN

carolrhoden@hotmail.com

Third-year student

University of Technology