Torie Bosch's column on abortion was on point ("Abortion debate will continue divisions until question of 'life' is answered," Feb. 23). She managed to depict the debate, as a whole, in a reasonably objective light that displayed a major truth about the issue: It will never, ever be agreed upon.

It failed, however, to analyze the implications of that fact. Abortion is a matter both deeply personal and often religious in nature. As a secular nation based in individuals rights, the government has no stake in its regulation, save for the protection of personal discretion, as it provides in so many other areas (speech, religion, etc.). The argument made by both camps is often a false one -- that it is an issue of legality, or as Bosch put it, that they are "right." Bosch states, "Whether you're pro-choice or pro-life you know you're right." This is just another way of saying that right and wrong don't apply -- a sure indication that you are asking the wrong questions. Moral opinion should never be the subject of discussions of legality. Pro-lifers should feel free to persuade individuals toward what they feel is morally acceptable, just as religious groups may wander the streets distributing pamphlets.

But, to preclude choice in the matter would be tantamount to institutionalizing said religion, not simple proselytization. I fear that pro-lifers often make the mistake of viewing their counterparts as "pro-abortion" rather than by their own chosen moniker. No one in his or her right mind has ever wished to get an abortion. It is a decision both physically and mentally painful, and so, its gravity should be respected.

I'm not right, but neither am I wrong. I just have my opinion, so please let me keep it.