We received some criticism recently for sharing a point of view that was different from what the complainers believed.

Let me just say right off – that is what newspapers are for.

In many instances, people only understand what they know.

Historically, newspapers felt obligated to share different points of view. They weren’t criticized for that. Different ideas were appreciated. Only with having knowledge of all points of view can the public become enlightened and make the best decisions.

I have to say that obligation of newspaper, in fact all media, has served this country well.

If not for sharing different points of view, let me share some things that would not have happened historically.

•We would not have broken away from England.

•We would not have freed the slaves.

•We would not have entered some wars or conflicts where atrocities were taking place.

•We would not have allowed women to vote.

•We would not have allowed blacks their civil rights.

•We would not have allowed gays their civil rights.

Etc., etc. etc.

Those ideas were not always the popular viewpoint in this country. But because newspapers shared those injustices, they now, fortunately, are beliefs most of us share. These newspapers believe in independent thought and will not slant news one way or the other.

Group think is dangerous. If we all thought the same way and stayed headstrong is those beliefs those changes never would have come about.

This country is polarized right now because different sides want everyone to think the same way. Let’s learn from our history. That is dangerous.

The best decisions come out of compromise.

Think of disagreements you have in your own family, for instance. Is it best when one spouse always gets their way? Or is it better when the entire family works together, compromises and makes a decision they all can live with.

That’s what we’re lacking in this country right now – compromise. And it didn’t just start under this administration. It was taking place before – just from the opposing point of view. That’s why this administration was elected. Think about all of this when you vote. I keep seeing all of these advertisements saying vote all Democrat so things will change or vote all Republican so things will stay the same.

Maybe it’s because I’m writing this on Halloween, but that thinking frightens me. There needs to be a balance for our government to work. I feel during these last two administrations that laws are being jammed down are throats. There’s no discussion in Congress on what’s best for our country. I’m not even sure why we have a Congress right now. Presidents are making orders that aren’t even being thought out. I want an elected Congress to make the laws through thought and compromise. It’s not supposed to be all or nothing. We need to have patience. Take baby steps. We need a strong Congress, and that won’t happen if we keep electing the same people time and time again. Don’t point the finger at other states. Our lawmakers in Congress are doing the same thing. If we do re-elect them, we need to force them to take back our country.