To the editor:

Having come from a perhaps a similar place as Mr. Fred Olson in my “other life,” I can appreciate his concerns.

I remember only too well the first time I was exposed to the “Vagina Monologues” in 2001, when I lived in Los Angeles.

I was so embarrassed! So shocked! My cheeks burned red. I could hardly look around the room!

They were saying the “v” word!

They were saying (gasp!) The “c” word!

Then, right in the middle of the production, I GOT IT!

This wasn’t about penis-bashing or making women the “end all to end all.” It was about LIFE, with a capital “L.”

I found myself laughing myself dizzy.

I found myself moved.

I found myself crying like a baby.

I found myself thinking.

It was a terribly important part of my development as a person — as a woman!

Then to have had the privilege of being a member of the cast in 2007? Well, I can also attest to the extremely powerful experience it was for me, personally.

Will everyone understand this play? No way, José.

Will everyone agree with telling it like it is, a la “Vagina Monologues-style?” Nah, I doubt it!

Will everyone be moved by its message? Unlikely.

What I do believe, with my whole heart, is that I was lucky to have been part of the flagship production. And that I am so dang proud to live here in America, on Whidbey Island — where everyone is free to express their opinion!

Even when it differs from my own.

Blessings on you all. Yes, even to dear Mr. Olson.

Wendy Lee Lynds

Greenbank