In case you haven't felt the vibe, it's Healthy Loving Week at Penn State!

It's a time to use your head, shake your booty (wisely) and learn a little something about the various lifestyles that make up the cultural landscape of the University.

At 7 tonight, the award-winning writer Brian McNaught takes the microphone in the HUB Ballroom to give the week's keynote address. The speech, titled "Homophobia -- The Toll It Takes on All of Us," is an examination of how society's prejudices affect all of us, gay or straight, man or woman.

Healthy loving means acceptance and open-mindedness, but beyond topics of sexual orientation, healthy loving also means safe loving.

Several programs in the HUB and elsewhere during the week are designed to give people a chance to wake up to the realities of "Sex in the '90s." The message is clear: Students must take the time to learn the difference between the myths and truths of lust and love.

No one is invincible. AIDS does not discriminate. Relationships can mean as much hurt as they do love. Not all people are comfortable with their bodies. Pregnancy and childbirths can be monumental tasks. Gay men, lesbians and bisexual people often feel marginalized by their orientations when they simply seek love like everyone else.

Are all these topics so daunting that it's better just to ignore them? Certainly not. This week, it's safe to ask questions -- and it's chic to learn how to love safely.

But it's not just about sex or love, it's about people. So love someone -- love everyone -- and maybe someday Healthy Loving Week can simply be a celebration instead of being packed with education.