A day of kind words

With all the badmouthing and vitriol in our nation today, I think we should establish a day of kind words. I would love to see a day when no one speaks badly of another or to another. A good many of our national leaders, on both sides of the aisle, are the worst perpetrators of speaking ill of colleagues and others. It’s no wonder constituents and others feel like they have permission to engage in hate talk.

We’ve all heard the expression — indeed, been admonished by parents — that if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all. We’ve ignored those wise words for too long.

I’m not sure about the protocol for establishing National Donut Day or National Cousins Day, but I would like to, unofficially, establish Nov. 1 (All Saints Day) as the day when no one speaks ill of another, nor do we speak hurtful words to another. Wouldn’t it be amazing if all of Estes Park practiced speaking only kind words on that day, as an example to the rest of the nation? I say, let’s give it a shot. It doesn’t cost a penny to be kind, but the benefits could be life-changing.

Carolyn Wills, Estes Park

Protecting the values that define our democracy

I feel compelled to write this letter. I feel our democratic form of government is at stake, and that worries me. My worry is not in the form of being a Democrat or Republican but as an American.

Here are my concerns:

  • In a democracy, you get a say in things that are important to you.
  • The policies shaped by elected officials affect our lives.
  • We pay taxes. Who do you want to spend your money, and should that discussion be open and reflect a collaborative process?
  • Our rights are not necessarily guaranteed. Today, we are seeing attacks on voting equity, gerrymandering, voting restrictions, personal freedoms, misinformation, and election intimidation.
  • You matter. Diversity is not being celebrated as a value, and today, diverse perspectives on issues affecting our freedoms are not allowed.

Here is my question: As Americans, do we want to live in a country of freedom, compassion, and rule of law or a country of chaos, fear, and hate? 

The beauty of our democracy is that we each have the power to answer that question. I have done volunteer work in a variety of countries where democracy is not celebrated or functioning. Polls show that we Americans are exhausted, tired of being divided, and want to move on. Isn’t that what you want?

I want to restore freedoms and to protect: 

  • Our democratic values
  • Our reproductive rights
  • Our voting rights
  • Our Social Security, Medicare, and Veterans’ benefits
  • Our diversity and its benefits — name-calling offers no solutions
  • Our public safety, including gun safety measures
  • Our environment, public lands, and clean air and water

I think the majority of us support these values. However, these values are not guaranteed. They need nurturing by all of us. So “find your something” and help us restore these American values.

Rene Moquin, Estes Park