here's what I wrote on the petition

[Guest guest]

May 27, 2008, Francine Mienik, New York

I, too, am appalled by Portillo's behavior, which -- while obviously devastating to and his family -- is just as damaging to Ms. Portillo and the rest of the class, except, perhaps, for the two brave little souls who voted for to stay in their class. No-one can participate in cruelty without being affected by it.

I remember reading about a 'primitive'(and yet more 'civilized' than we) tribe that -- when someone had done something wrong, the entire tribe gathered around that individual, everyone telling him/her good things about themself -- their virtues rather than their 'sins'. Ms.Portillo, can you see what a blessing that could have been for , the very reverse of public humiliation.

Although I know you only through reading of this awful incident, surely a love for children and a desire to bless must have inspired your desire to teach small children. Whatever has happened to that love and desire, culminating in the awful treatment of , is something that you can and will regain if you put your heart to it. Until then it seems wiser for you not to teach. I pray that regaining that sense of love and a desire to make amends to will be your priority.

Sincerely, Francine Mienik

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[Guest guest]

WOW Francine, awesome words!