How unfortunate and disturbing that your story on circumcision (Choice Cut,” 7/30) did not lead with the overriding fact of the act: excruciating and completely needless pain for newborn boys. Rather, it led readers to believe that only a few seconds’ worth of suffering was the only cost for this mutilation.

Many Jews today celebrate a bris for their baby boys just as they hold for their baby girls—with a caring naming ceremony. No torture is required.

Maybe next go-round, have the readers take part in the story, and have them—along with Rabbi Henesch—take some off their genitals. Then ask if it hurts.

Or just keep picking on newborns. You can hold them down easier.

College Park, Md.