Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/108504
ReadeR FORUM MassaGe is LeGaL; hUMan tRaFFiCKinG is nOt I can't thank the entire team enough for this issue of Massage & Bodywork. The entire magazine is a goldmine, and usually I take away a few key concepts from each issue and add to my knowledge bank. This entire issue added to my knowledge bank. Amazing. I especially thank the writers of the two extensive articles: "Hiding in Plain Sight" (Heather McCutcheon) and "Massage is Legal; Human Trafficking is Not" (Karrie Osborn). These articles validate my thoughts, feelings, and controversial opinions I have shared with other students and teachers in various trainings around the nation. These articles are the fi rst I have read that really speak the ugly truth on how massage is perceived in many areas, especially cities. My own beloved city of San Francisco is directly impacted by the types of businesses portrayed in these articles, and it's been a struggle to try to overturn the perception and see the justice system work very slowly in eradicating these EMAIL YOUR LETTERS TO EDITOR@ABMP.COM. INCLUDE YOUR FULL NAME AND THE CITY AND STATE IN WHICH YOU RESIDE. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO EDIT LETTERS FOR LENGTH AND CLARITY. dens of illegal operations and human exploitation. I feel your authors covered nearly all aspects of these important issues and did so with such candor as to inspire me to write and thank you and your team. Many massage magazines, practitioners, and teachers shy away from the brutal truth, or feel that by avoiding it they can somehow eradicate the issues. That never works. It is the truth that sets us free, and it will take bold truth as legitimate, ethical massage therapists and bodyworkers move the profession forward, especially in the eyes of the health-care industry. I will personally take the advice given in your magazine and apply it to my own business website and related materials to represent the advocate position for ethical bodyworkers. freYa alexanDra magnusson san FRanCisCO, CaLiFORnia the anatOMY OF haPPiness I found Douglas Nelson's article "The Anatomy of Happiness" ( January/February 2013, page 35) to be right on the mark. He covered a variety of concerns and experiences that have been central to my own practice for years. I liked it so much that I reposted it at my website, and I'm in his debt for allowing me to do so. Thanks, Doug, and keep up the great work! eric mitcHell MissOULa, MOntana www.abmp.com. See what benefits await you. 11