After reading in the Mailbag that the health care reform act would encourage seniors to end their lives, I went to my computer and learned that the author of the "page 425" section of the legislation is Congressman Earl Blumenauer of Oregon.

He crafted the proposed legislation with a Republican doctor. It would make advanced care planning services available to seniors who choose to use them. One example is advice on making a will.

There is nothing in this bill that would encourage "senior suicide," and the services provided are not in any way mandatory. So, one must ask, why would such outlandish misinformation be circulating?

There is no plausible explanation other than the desire on the part of people who hope to see the health care reform effort fail, no matter the cost to the country. If ever our society is to gain wisdom and maturity, we must become courageous seekers after truth.

We must be willing to stop listening to people who have a political agenda, and go to the correct source for information (i.e. - read the legislation for yourself). We must be willing to change our minds when we get information that challenges views formerly held, and dismiss all opinions and so-called facts offered by sources with a political agenda.

It is time to recognize that many pundits and radio show hosts enjoy making millions of dollars annually by playing on people's fears and stirring up anger and suspicion. This is how they make their living, and truth is irrelevant to them.

I encourage anyone concerned about this legislation to take the intelligent step of researching the material for yourself and contacting Congressman Blumenauer for accurate information.

Jesse McManus, Albany