Kindness should rule in private and government alike

I just returned from almost four weeks of heavenly travel in beautiful New Zealand and cheery Australia. When I travel, I consider myself to be an ambassador for the United States. So, in that role I offer peace stickers to the many people I meet along the way — wait staff, tour guides, store employees, shop owners, baristas and others. And, if you know me, you know I like to engage everyone in a conversation. You may even be a recipient of one of my peace stickers — 3,800 dispersed in the last two years. The 100-plus people with whom I conversed, Kiwis/Aussies/international travelers, are horrified by Donald Trump and his short-sighted policies and practices. A group of four Estonians fear his cozy relationship with Vladimir Putin and the havoc it will wreak on their country. Many locals felt sorry for our situation. Our standing with democratic countries is not looking good.

On another note, I would venture to say most Americans would say we need to cut some fat from the government (and many corporations). However, using a scalpel versus a machete (or in the case of Musk, a chainsaw) might be a better practice. Musk is adding to the unemployment numbers while evading his secure contracts with the U.S. government.

By the way, when are those grocery prices going down? I thought Trump said day one.

With respect for a government of, by and for the people,

ANN GIANTVALLEY

Sandpoint