The "issue" with gmail is a non issue in my opinion. Basically all it amounts to is that there is an automated filter that can and does scan through your email to provide you with banners/adds that actually relate to things you have an apparent interest in.

If we were talking about a buisness related issue, or if you were some sort of top secret agent, then I might recomend steering clear, but for general users it's a great service that I'm certain you will find usefull. Provided you are not too paraniod.