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Lynn,
I was sorry to hear the strip will be ending the new stories soon - yours is such a wonderful strip to read, one hopes it will never end! That being said, everyone deserves to retire & I wish you all the best in whatever you decide to do in the future! Your strip has been a great source of laughter & tears for me over the years. My dad & I talk almost every day & what happened in your strip is usually part of each conversation. Thank you so much for years of laughs!
As a note: your strip today about Lawrence was fantastic! A close friend of mine is gay & I remember showing him the strips about Lawrence's coming out & how much he said they mirrored his own experiences. Thank you for being someone in the public eye who is so willing to take a side in such an explosive issue! It is wonderful to see someone who portrays gay people like they should be - normal people like everyone else :)

Sam P, Ottawa ON

First of all, let me say that I LOVE "For Better or for Worse" - in fact, it's my favorite strip. I even tape some of them to my fridge. Been reading the strip for years. I'm a 70 yr. old grandmother and no prude, but I was VERY disappointed in today's strip, since it appears that you are being "politically correct" by advocating same sex marriage. I have nothing against gays, but I value and honor God's law above what the majority may think. I assume since this is your byline, it is what you believe. And you are certainly entitled to that. I will continue to read your strip - and thanks for all the pleasure (and tears at times) that it has evoked. But I just wanted you to know my opinion as a devoted and faithful reader.

Joyce M, Asheville, NC originally, Portsmouth, VA most of life

I wrote to you a couple of years ago, asking whether Lawrence would ever be marrying Nick. Today's strip was a nice tip of your cap in that direction, en route to The Wedding. Thank you so much!

Dorothy, Boston

When I read your strip today, I feel like offering you the loudest applause possible! As in your original storyline on this...don't take flack from anyone! Bravo!

Cyndy, Southern CA

Dear Lynn,
Thank you for the strip today! Thank you for bringing attention to the marriage equality issue. You have never been afraid to address a "controversial" issue and as a faithful reader, I appreciate that.
All the best,

Elizabeth C, Portland, Oregon, USA (future Republic of Cascadia)

I just want to thank you for todays strip, that Mike and Nick have the right to be married. Makes me think there is hope for the US. I would like to forward the strip to every member of Congress, State Legislators, Govenors, and leaders of city government. Lynn has always brought up difficult subjects and brought them into fresh air and sunlight. My days will be just a little emptier when the strip concludes. I also wonder what my daughter will raise her family with. I raised mine with Elly et al. Salutes to everyone connected.

Edith O-P, CA

I have been a long time reader of FBOFW but after today's strip, I will no longer be reading. Disappointing.

Cheryl, Rupert ID

I just wanted to say that since Lynn has included homosexual politics in her strip, she should also include something about abortion. I mean, may as well take another plunge, right? It's an important issue as well. Abortion is wrong, and we see homosexuals have rights, so what about them? What about unborn babies? They're Canadian citizens too!
If politics is going to be even a minor factor in this strip, may as well include something like that. It's as much a part of our Canada as homosexuality. While people cheer us for giving them rights, we should be booed to the ground for murdering thousands of inoocents each year. What kind of country are we?
Thank you for listening to my thoughts. Even if unborn babies don't have rights right now, I'd love it if they did in the strip. I'm fighting for them. It's be nice to see the rest of Canada do so as well.

Becky B, ON

I can't believe that you would write about gays in your comic strip. I am a Christian and it clearly states in the Bible that it is a sin in God's eyes. There's no changing this fact and no getting around it. So if you are a Christian, please look your beliefs over and search for the truth, God's truth. The one awesome truth in life is salvation in Jesus Christ, let's not forget that.

Nate, Arcadia

Thank you for Lawrence's comments in the strip today, I hope we see Lawrence more in the future!

Lori H. WV

Thank you acknowledging the rights of all human beings. Too bad it is still such a rare event on our planet. At least, your strip is a little bit of light in an unconscious world!

Erica P., OR

I loved today's strip, it makes me proud to be Canadian!! Great strip!!

Ingrid, BC

It is so refreshing to have a strip that reflects life as it actually happens. I have had older family members with strokes,young friends discriminated against because they were gay, adolescent daughters fumbling their way to adulthood. Thank you for capturing all of that and allowing me to enjoy it this time around!

Diane C, Covina CA

Thank you once again for putting a potentially hot issue into everyday context to highlight the ridiculousness of it being a potentially hot issue. Instead marriage is discussed naturally as an individual and joint decision that should be an option for consideration for all humans. Your strip continues to be a delight. Thank you!

Kathleen, NY NY

I was reading the comics to my kids this morning and thought it was very inappropriate to see a story on the right for gays to get married. Since when do we have to read about issues that the writer feels strong about. Comics are supposed to be funny. As a matter of fact, this strip hasn't been funny in years.

Roland R, Orlando FL

I can't thank you enough for today's strip. My husband and I just got married over a month ago (and for those who say these things won't last - we've already been together for five years), and the very fact that the State of California recognizes our relationship has made all the difference in the world.

I know people will be upset by today's strip, because they don't quite get the concept of a love that isn't exactly like theirs. But it IS love. Thanks for showing that.

Peter C, Los Angeles

I loved today's strip! I have to really wonder at people who find it 'less- than-wholesome'...here you have a young man, Lawrence, who shows loyalty, thoughtfulness & love to his friends, as well as his life partner...these ARE family values as far as I'm aware! It's sad that some cannot see that. It's not a sinister 'agenda' - it's LIFE, pure & simple, like it or not! And Lynn continues, to the end, to portray it honestly, sensitively, relevantly and compassionately. Thank you!

Allison J, Hamilton ON

Although I am sad to see the strip go, I could care less about Self-centered Liz.

How about April? I'd love to see what happens with her. I've watched her from the day she was born to her growing up to be quite the respectful, kind, caring young lady she is becoming.

It would be nice to see a nice ending for her instead of the other one... lol.

Lynn has obviously been such an influence to many peoples lives, so thanks Lynn for all the wonderful years and memories. This comic will truly be missed as one of my daily morning pleasures.

Wen, NY

I have been reading Lynn's stories for 27 years. Easy to date with her book "David We're Pregnant" and my first baby. She is honest in her journalism and fun but always with a message. Thanks you for sharing MY life through YOURS.

Karen M, Newfoundland and Labrador

I think what Lawrence meant is that for himself and Nick, the ceremony isn't what holds meaning. For some people having that moment to commit to each other in front of your family and friends is very important, for other people it isn't. It's a personal choice.

I am a young single women in my 20s and have attended (and been a bridesmaid) in quite a few weddings over the past couple of years. They can be very special moments. That being said, if I am ever blessed to meet a man I wish to spend the rest of my life with, I doubt I'll choose to have a wedding ceremony. This doesn't mean I look down on people who do, or think I'm less of a person for not wanting one… the ceremony just doesn't hold personal value for me.

I think that's what Lawrence was saying.

Samantha, Illinois

Kudos, Kudos, Kudos for today's (Aug 6th) strip, Lynn!!! If celebrating the right of two people to publically celebrate their union is pushing politics, well, I say-well, I say PUSH AWAY!!! Lawrence is right, it is a wonderful thing he has the CHOICE to wed in public.

Vickie, Whidbey Island WA

Amen, Lynn! I know gay marriage is one of those topics that gets so many people up in arms, but thank you for not being afraid to address it. Straight as I am, mother of 2, I firmly believe in the right of two people who love each other to be married, regardless of what sex those two people might be. And I hope that one day we live in a world where the concept of two people of the same sex being married doesn't even raise an eyebrow.

Elizabeth, Baltimore MD

I'm just after reading today's Coffee Talk. I have to admit that a lot of the comments saddened me.

***********NEWSFLASH*****************

Gay People Exist!

They are just like you & I.

They have as much right to be happy as we do!!!!

It's not "a political statement", it's a point of view.

**************************************

Jeez, you would think that in the 21st century we'd be more tolerant.

Life is life, love is love. Live and let live.

I'm so looking forward to the wedding. It'll be a little over a week after my 1st wedding anniversary and 2 days before my birthday. Best of luck Liz.

Sonya, Limerick Ireland

First time I have EVER written to a cartoonist, but I thought this warrented the time. Outstanding of you to speak up for the rights of everyone - Bravo.
Loyal reader.

Lulu, CA

Regarding the August 6th strip, any artist or person in the entertainment business is never going to please all the people all the time. I'm so glad you follow your own heart and let me be the judge of whether I will enjoy your strip or not instead of worrying about what sells or what people will think. You have to stay true to your characters. Could you really have Lawrence say anything else? Maybe he will have a ceremony some day, that's a different issue. Thanks for all the entertainment over the years and as a side plea, I would love to see the series continue in full books, something you could do at your own time schedule.

Terri L, Rochester NY

Dearest Friends,

I have loved reading FBORFW for many, many years and one of the things I love most about it is how socially responsible it is. When future history students look back at the art form called comic strips, they will be able to see Lynn's strips and get a clue what it was like to be living in the world during the early turn of the 21st century. Whether you are for or against gay marriage, it is an issue during our lifetime. I love the strip, not just for the characters, or the situations they get into, but because it reminds us of our humanity.

I love that some people feel so strongly both ways towards the impending marriage ( I'm THRILLED! ). You can't have all those feelings and emotions without having a relationship. Even though I'm a bit sad at not being able to see "what comes next" I know I will enjoy looking back, laughing and crying at all the human things that Pattersons have done. You know what they say, "What comes around, goes around," and that can't be any truer for people with kids and families.

Thanks!! for everything... and what is to come.

Sarah M, Houston TX

Don't taint your strip with politics. We've loved it for years for what it is, and we don't come to it to be fed your political views.

Kris, NY

Lynn, I have looked forward to and read your strip daily for years, considering it to be one area of family friendly space in the newspaper. However, it is with sadness that I read today's strip and found that you are willing to include a very family-unfriendly topic in the characters of Laurence and Nick. After touring your site, I realize that you had broached this subject some time ago, but somehow I must have missed it.

I also realize that you have covered some very deep issues such as the deaths of family members and beloved pets as well as the developments and breakdowns of relationships. However, I feel that homosexuality simply does not belong on our comic page and implore you to break from the matter immediately before you distance yourself from your core readership.

Steven C, The Woodlands TX

Although I would much prefer to see Liz remain single and independent, or at least end up with someone who is less bland and manipulative than Anthony, I found Saturday's strip charming and sweet. It doesn't totally erase my fear that Liz is settling for Anthony, but it does reassure me that at least there's some deep affection between them. Thank you.

Kudos also for the strip about Lawrence having the right to get married. It's hard to believe that there are still people out there who would oppose this, or who feel that a simple mention of gay marriage is somehow objectionable but months of strips about L&A's heterosexual marriage is A-OK. Good for you for creating Wednesday strip -- and especially for having the courage to "out" Lawrence so many years ago, when bigots existed in even greater droves than they do today.

Amy, Toronto

Thank you for today's strip with Lawrence - thank you for your boldness with respect to human dignity and equality.

Josh N, Kitchener ON

Brava!
Isn't it amazing how a comic strip can make a social commentary in a 4 panel space. I remember when Doonsbury introduced the first a gay character in the Doonsbury world. There was a huge uproar, but ultimately, he was just one of the family. It was the same feeling when Lawrence told Michael that he was gay all those years ago. I thought it was a wonderful and thoughful way to introduce this in the storyline. Sooooo. . . . Mazel Tov to Anthony & Liz and to Lawrence & Nick.

Laurel H, Albany NY

August 6! YESSSSSSSSSSS
Thanks Lynn! "All of God's children got a place in the Choir" What a well rounded snapshot of life, great message of love and compasion.
Mike and Lawrence are friends supporting one and other in life to the fullest and accepting each others gifts as they present themselves. That's what being human is all about. I was especially moved by Lawrence's (your) response, he didn't seem to need to push any political agenda.
"Straight but not narrow" is healthy.
Thanks again.

MJ L-K, Libertyville Illinois

I'm American, Republican and Catholic. If any gay couple wants to be married than more power to them and God bless them. I have more gay friends whose relationships last longer and who seem much happier than my straight friends in relationships.

It will happen in the U.S. Just give us a little more time. We're a bit slow thanks to a select few that hold back votes for stupid, selfish reasons and the politicians that play in to their crap.

Anne, Florida

"Keep your "Gay rights" garbage off the strip. I too believe that marriage is between a man and a woman and those of you who are giving "cudos" better start thinking about Sodom and Gamorra. As far as I am concerned, Mass. and Calif. are the new Sodom and Gamorra and we Christens are not going away.

Barbara, NJ

LOVE TODAYS STRIP!!!!! Thanks for not being afraid to bring up the gay marriage issue. Sure hope our country catches up to yours.You go girl!I am in a wonderful heterosexual marriage, and think any same sex couples deserve the same chance for a happy union.

JoAnn, Arizona

I have always liked Lawrence's character. Love is the gift - who cares how it's wrapped? Lawrence's true love is in the form of a man - does it matter? We all deserve a mate to love honor and cherish. If that's not worth celebrating, then I don't know what is. And Lynn is a hopeless romantic for constantly reminding us of that.

Penny, Wisconsin

Lynn,
Thank you ever so much for today's strip. It was very well done and very much to the point. As a gay man in Seattle, it's heartening to see this. Ignore all the folks out there who are complaining and condemning you for this strip - you've had such a positive impact on people!

Brian, Seattle WA

Thank you for today's cartoon (Aug. 6-Nick/flowers-marriage)
---I read your comic strip everyday to lighten my soul and to learn about humanity. So, thank you for teaching tolerance and acceptance with a smile. I appreciate your craft and your brilliance. I, too, am happy to finally be united/married to my partner of 17 years.

Alyx K, Lincoln Nebraska

Thank you Lynn for today's strip! It IS wonderful for everyone to have the right. I can't wait to see Liz and Anthony's wedding!

Meredith A, Bloomington IN

I just happened to find your website while I tried to catch up on THE WEDDING. I love the storyline. It is so true to life. I certainly will be a daily visitor now that I have found you. No more waiting for my newspaper.

Barbara M, Haverhill, MA, USA

I think gratuitously interjecting homosexual marriage into today's strip is inappropriate. This issue is deeply offensive to many people. Whether these people are right or wrong is not the point. Their view on marriage has been adopted and followed by society for centuries.

Ms. Johnston, in my view, is being deliberately insensitive to them and is forcing them to choose between her and their values. Would she act in this manner with respect to an issue that offended homosexuals or blacks or Indians or women?

Why is it that every group is entitled to "sensitivity" and "concern" except Christians who believe in the Bible?

John, Scottsdale Arizona

Thanks for the calmly stated truth of today's strip ("isn't it great to know we have the right"). Keep up the great work on this issue, and don't let any negative responses slwo you down!

Robin S, Portland OR

Thank you for today's strip. Whether or not it's a "political statement", I'm glad that it shows what is simply a part of millions of people's lives. It'll be sad when the daily strips end.

Sara, Wisconsin

Very nice strip today! It's nice to know that everyone has the right to get married in Canada if they choose. Unfortunately, not everyone is so open-minded here in the U.S.

Joan, US

This strip mentioning gay marriage today was terrific! I appreciate both the creation and publication of the strip. What is a "traditional family" anyway? Please keep speaking out!

Claire, Boulder Colorado

I've enjoyed your strip and been a loyal reader for years but today's strip where you are lauding the perversion of same-sex marriage is the straw that broke the camel's back. I will be doing without my daily 'For Better or Worse'� fix from now on and will not buy any newspaper that carries your stip. You should be ashamed of yourself and so should Canada.

LWR, Tampa

I wanted to thank you for giving back a sense of "family values" in your comic strip. I am in my late 70's and look forward to reading FBorFw every morning because it reminds me so much of my own family growing up in the 40's. To read your comic strip each day puts a smile on my face and renews my spirit when every thing else around me seems to indicate the world is falling apart! Thanks for your gift of love to all of us "older folks"

Barbara, Atlanta GA

You knew this strip would stir up comments because you had your website enhanced to handle the "August" traffic.

I've been a faithful follower of your strip through the years & an amazed at how my life parallels with it! I think we both became grandmothers about the same time.

But I was disappointed this morning when I read the story with Lawrence's comment. Was it really necessary to bring that thought into this story line? I really don't think Lawrence's "gay-ness" should reflect on Elizabeth's marriage.

I will continue to read your strip...but want you to know that I'm disappointed.

Sheila, Columbus Indiana

Speaking as someone from the east coast, I was thrilled with today's comic! I think everyone should have the right to marry who they love. Love is not about gender. I really wish more people would open their eyes and be more accepting. Thanks so much for your wonderful message.

Dawn, SC

I'm so sorry you had to end your strip with a plug for gay rights. I've read today's blog, and since many people think it's great, I would like to say there are a great many of us who still follow the teachings of the Bible that this lifestyle is, and always has been a sin. I know that word is no longer popular with folks who want to do their own thing, but that doesn't change the fact that it is what it is.

Carin C, Knoxville TN

Today's strip with Lawrence saying he and Nick are married in spirit? Absolutely wonderful. You've sent a powerful message without standing on a soapbox. As usual, you are awesome, Lynn.

Donna, San Francisco

I have read this comic for years in the Philadelphia Inquirer. I love the strip, love the Pattersons and finally sending my thank you to Lynn for creating such a wonderful family that touches my heart every day.

Shell, Newtown Square PA

I enjoy your depth of focus...you reach to the heart of issues at all levels within the family and community, and I find insight in your view.

Love and relationships, at all ages, is a central theme in our lives...and the confusion that comes from it...makes for some of the most effective humor.

Thanks...

Scott B, Orlando FL

Today's strip really hit home for me, as a lesbian in the US, where gay marriage is not legal. I'm so happy you've chosen to include Lawrence's romantic (and otherwise) life as a subplot in the strip. However, his comment in the last panel makes me wonder if Lawrence has ever been bitter at seeing the ease with which the Pattersons move through their married lives (those of them that have tied the knot); they don't even have to think about whether or not they "have the right" to get married. Just some thoughts that were brought up by the strip today. Thanks for all you do!

Molly W, Philadelphia PA

Lynn,
I nearly cried at the last panel of today's strip with Mike and Lawrence. It is great that Lawrence and his partner have the right to have a "real" ceremony if they wish to do so - something that most of us in the States don't have the "right" to.

Emily, Washington DC

Dear Ms. Patterson,

I've enjoyed reading you and
your family's life story for many, many years, and I, like many of your readers have bought several of your books.

I'm not one to comment to much on the life style or political leanings, that characters in the usual comic strips engae in, or advocate, and though my wife and I have loved reading and discussing the way your family has grown, much like our own family, for we too have an older son, and two daughters, however unfortunately, at least for us, we couldn't let today's cartoon panel go by without letting you know, that though we admire Lawrence for his generosity and for his loyalty to the Patterson family over the years, we don't think his life style choices should be heralded or paraded about in family oriented comics.

We are sorry you are retiring, and we probably won't be reading many more of your comics, not so much because of this aspect of the storyline, I'm talking about today, but because its true what Thomas Wolfe said, paraphrasing "you can't go back home again", and it wouldn't be the same for us.

Good luck in the future, and we were sorry to see that you and John have decided to go your individual ways, however we believe the God doesn't close a door, with out opening another one for you,that will allow you to continue your path along life's journey.

May God continue to bless you and your family, and keep all of you safe.

Ken, Wallace NC