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Better tomorrow just day away

To the editor:

When I struggle to see the good in today’s news, a walk in the woods at this season of rebirth and new life reassures me of the overwhelming power of nature’s healing processes. Both as individuals and in groups we can foster a reciprocal relationship with nature, giving back to a world that has given everything to us. 

Scientists and other scholars continue to explore our phenomenal world, and teachers enlighten our children, keeping the sense of wonder alive. We are learning  to use the internet to share knowledge, exercising our better nature rather than fueling our fear. 

Thomas Jefferson counted on citizens to be informed, to make the effort to distinguish between fact and fiction.  He wrote that he would much prefer newspapers without government over government without newspapers. 

Investigative journalists are shining light into dark corners, but it’s our responsibility to know what their research is showing.  

I celebrate my freedom to speak my mind, join marches, sign petitions, demand the attention of my elected officials. Self-government is hard work, and I have never seen Americans so aroused, responding quickly when they see injustice. 

Our Constitution inspires us to “form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare…”  I am grateful for people who are looking into the Electoral College and gerrymandering, both of which are undermining our democracy.

I can reach out to people who think differently from me.  Spring is a great time to meet new neighbors.  I can try to be civil in my conversations, and when I make mistakes I can apologize and make amends.

Many other nations in the world are showing us better ways of doing things.  They are embracing clean energy, public transportation, health care, social justice, public education, and prison reform.  When we Americans decide to invest in these things, we will have plenty of good examples to follow.  Tomorrow will be better.

Carolyn Peterson

Houghton

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