DEAR ABBY: I have never written to you before, but I felt compelled to do so after reading the letter from "Not Guilty by Association," the daughter of the racist father.
I want to applaud this young lady for her courage and strength in refusing to allow her father's misguided beliefs to infect her life. She is probably not aware of the fact that she has broken a link in the chain of racist hate. Racism is taught, not inherited. The only way we will ever eliminate this deadly infection, which is a crime against all mankind, is through teaching our children that it is wrong to hate anyone based on skin color, race or religious beliefs.
I want this young lady to know that she, herself, is a victory in the battle against this infection. Because she chose not to follow her father and become a link in the racist chain, her children will be raised to see individuals for who they are, and not for any external reasons.
Although you face a very difficult situation, "Not Guilty," please know that many people stand behind you and wish you God's blessing. Your personal fight against racism is a fight for all who want to rid the world of this deadly infection. -- MICKEY CASE, FALLBROOK, CALIF.
DEAR MICKEY: I'm pleased to pass along your message of support. Ultimately, we must all be judged by what we stand for, and not the thoughts and deeds of our parents.