In my previous letter, I was not referring to constitutional legalities, so I did mean to use the word "politics." I did not address the issue of whether it is constitutionally legal to display a religious icon in a medical office. Rather, I am primarily concerned with the meaning of such display. This meaning varies according to the nature of the activities taking place within that office. Similarly, it does not matter whether Dr. LeGrand's office is a "governmental" one or not. As a matter of fact, very little true political activity takes place in most governmental offices! I use the term "political" in the traditional sense of public interaction, and the public–secular realm is indeed the "political sphere, properly speaking" (1). Patient care, because all citizens are entitled (and hopefully welcome) to such care, is indeed a public, secular activity.

The significance of the display of "personal photographs, mementos of travels," and other such items is distinct from the display of religious icons. This seems obvious to me. The opposite of the political sphere is the private one. And if Dr. LeGrand does not use her office for patient care, it is indeed her uniquely "personal" (that is, private) space. Needless to say, I have nothing against the adorning of one's private rooms with religious icons—I do so myself in my own home.

I notice that Dr. LeGrand insinuates a subtle but distinctly different topic for discussion into her argument. My previous letters have addressed the display of religious icons on examining room walls. She, instead, seems to be discussing her choice of jewelry: "I may choose to wear a cross and thereby proclaim ... my personal beliefs." She is therefore not really talking about the public display of a religious symbol on the wall of her clinic, but rather her own apparel. Jewelry is appropriately personal and makes no institutional reference, even if by her jewelry Dr. LeGrand is attempting to "proclaim to all (her) personal beliefs."

I could say a great deal about the many dangers inherent in the practice of a physician "routinely deal(ing) with the spirituality" of her or his patients. I realize this is a hot topic these days. But such a presentation would entail a philosophical and historical discussion far exceeding the 400 words allotted to me here!