Future is in common ground, not negativity

Bonner County Democrats were shocked to read the anti-Obama story (Sept. 29). It is unfortunate that some of our neighbors are so angry with President Obama and our federal government, but we understand how they feel. We were unhappy and often enraged with the Bush administration. Regardless of our feelings, we all must recognize that there are challenges to be faced and problems we must solve — as Americans and citizens of Bonner County.

We use many words to label ourselves and others, words which tend to point out our differences. Whether we call ourselves conservative, libertarian, liberal or progressive, we must recognize we have much more in common than not — we are more similar than dissimilar. Our focus on what makes us different is not helping us to continue our American tradition of give-and-take over issues with the ultimate goal of improving our community. Solutions come from educating ourselves about an issue, sharing our points-of-view, and working towards consensus, involving consideration and compromise. A bright future lies in our common advancement not in our negativity.

The Bonner County Democrats offer our hearts and hands in American fellowship to those who disagree with us. It is our fervent hope that we will come together as citizens and human beings, with tolerance and respect.

LAURA BRY

Sandpoint

Bonner County Democratic Central Committee

Chairperson