Call me sick and horrible, but the article actually has good points.

And to the OP, the article is definitely not about "acceptance," but understanding. They even spell it out in the first few sentences.

And if I'm horribly off-base, I'd appreciate it if someone would show me why and how.

Yes, as others have said, the article in question was in very good taste and in no way condoned pedophilia. I'm sure Cracked knew they were going to catch shit for making such a controversial article, and decided it was worth it. Props to them.

Here's a link to the article for those who like to read before judging.