Your assessment of Michael Richards ("Comedian's explanation lacking in sincerity," Nov. 28) is ignorant and downright unforgiving.

Mr. Richards' apology brimmed with sincerity on Letterman.

He was so broken up and visibly shaken by his comments at the comedy club that he could barely make sentences and even expressed regret and doubt for coming on the show after he heard audience members laughing.

What he said was inexcusable, but he isn't trying to make excuses -- he is trying to offer an apology.

He has apologized not only to the black community but also to every other racial group, person, etc. who was offended and hurt by what he said.

He is seeking professional counseling and is making public apologies to different outlets. This is not the sound of an insincere racist but of a broken, disturbed man who needs some real healing.

To say that he should simply "give up" and recognize that he is "a racist" is a ridiculous idea.

I believe Mr. Richards has acted very appropriately since his tirade at the Laugh Factory. He has admitted his mistakes, tried to explain why it happened and where it came from, apologized over and over and is now seeking professional treatment to stop this from ever happening again. What more can we ask from citizens when they fall?

Your article and countless others that I have read have made no mention regarding the other racial comments made. Is it OK to call white people crackers?

It seems to me that these racially charged hateful words came out of anger in response to something else. Why is it acceptable for one and not for another? In my opinion, all of the dialogue at this event was shameful.

Sometimes we do say things out of anger that we truly do not believe. I feel bad for all those involved in this situation.