Is It Wrong To Love?

Is it wrong to Love?

Dear EVO:

I'm writing from a position which I hope to keep others from becoming involved in. I am 17 years oíd. and have lived in California and New York most of my life. I am currently living in Maine, where I have met many beautiful people and hippies, many who have been traveling through and have stayed for periods of time. There has recently been a great growth in Maine of hippies, as everywhere, and because of the ignorance and conservatism, many of the residents are trying to subdue this growth.

Two days ago, July 26, three policemen came to my apartment with a warrant. It was signed by one psychiatrist, one medical doctor, and my mother, who, as many other parents, does not understand what we are doing by our peace movements, our love, our flowers. I was taken to a mental hospital and isolated from any communication to the outside. The warrant stated: "Ï-1/2 years of increasing use of marijuana; exposure to LSD."

I am under "observation" and have been subjected to many medical tests. As far as 1 can find out they can keep me until Dec. 18, 1967 when I am 18 and can 'defend myselí in court. 1 have never been busted or had any trouble with the police.

I am asking and appealing to you. Is it wrong to work for peace? Is it wrong to love? Is it wrong to be a real person? I have found myself. I know where my head is at and where I belong. Yet for no tangible reason I am being held against my will.

All this has come as a shock to me yet I can see, now, the need to work, for everyone to work for what they believe in. I can but warn others of what the Great Society can do.

Love,

Chris Miller