Letters to the Editor 11/16/2016

To the Editor:

We have been blessed by a community that honors and remembers America's veterans.

And yesterday, we were doubly blessed by one young man from the high school who took it upon himself to show respect, honor and love to veterans in the community. Yesterday, I answered the door to find an impressive young person who desired to do something, all on his own, for veterans.

He stated that Coach (Steve) Hodges had told him a veteran lived here and he came to bring us a pie. He said he had every kind of pie and we could choose.

I had the misunderstanding that this was a team event, never dreaming that Daniel Stroemple had taken this on, out of his own heart of respect, as a personal "thank-you" to veterans he had never met.

I can't find enough words of gratefulness to Daniel for the act of honor and kindness he brought us.

And HOPE! As we have been watching rioting and anger around the country, Daniel was a ray of light for the future. I am so thankful for you, Daniel. You embody the goodness that America needs. God bless you!

Marilyn Kinsey

•••

To the Editor:

The morning after the election my 21-year-old son posted this. Not all millennials are devoid of what is happening. His permission has been given to share this.

"I am not one to post statuses to ... but in the wake of last night's election there are a few things I am compelled to say. First of all I want to express my full support to the LGBTQ+ communities, women, minorities, and anyone who is experiencing fear around Trump's victory. If anyone needs to reach out, find help, or is seeking support, I am here for you in whatever capacity I can be.

"This election has divided our nation in a way that myself and my peers have never seen. For many of us, this is the first presidential election we have been old enough to vote in, and it is very demoralizing to see a racist, hateful, misogynist rise to power. However, hope is not lost. Now, standing in the face of fear and hatred, is the time to love. Love everyone. Love your neighbor, love the people you don't agree with, love strangers, love your worst enemy. I'm writing this because this is the only thing I can think to say at this point. Be more generous with the love in your hearts than you've ever been. Be there for one another. Now is the time to come

together.

I love you all."

Neither of my children thought Hillary was a rock-star, and at the same time they knew progressive movements within this country would keep moving with their sense of acceptance and compassion as they grow into their generation.

I couldn't have said it better myself.

Michael Valoppi