I believe people are born with sexual orientation in place. For some reason, about 10 percent of humans end up with same-sex orientation. About 10 percent of humans are born left- rather than right-handed. Sexual orientation and handedness both affect the whole person, not just one aspect.

My belief in creation over choice comes from knowing many who were born with same-sex orientation. Many are faithful churchgoers. I have witnessed the anguish, grief, fear and depression that many of them endure as they grapple with a reality they did not and would not have voluntarily chosen.

A good percentage of homosexuals do engage in heterosexual relationships, including marriage. This choice is an attempt to be like everyone else. This choice is to retain respect and avoid discrimination. Some are successful in behaving like heterosexuals. Others find it too repugnant to continue. Acting heterosexual does not change sexual orientation. If it were a choice, many would simply change.

Ms. Helberg expressed concern over individual rights to apply one's religious beliefs. Since I may not belong to the same religious community she does, I do not want her religious beliefs rather than mine to affect my employment, housing, health care, marital status or personal behavior. I don't believe any American wants that.

Religious bodies believe differently about blood transfusions, birth control, divorce, remarriage, alcohol, caffeine, makeup, clothing, cutting hair and foods. They observe different days of the week as their holy day.

In America, each person has to observe his or her own beliefs without imposing them upon persons outside their belief group. Otherwise, they are infringing on the rights of another faith. That is what religious freedom means.