We owe it to our country to have civil discourse

Dear Editor: We the people are wasting way too much time parroting sound bites from our favorite politicians and political analysts. Many of us are painfully ignorant of what is actually going on in our government, because it takes time to investigate data- and policydriven events. It’s much easier to simply become intellectual zombies and follow our preferred ideological platforms. Many of us act as if we are too busy with life, family, friends, and work to even make an honest attempt at basic independent thought. It’s so ironic that many political debates among the politicians, analysts, and citizens are merely childish arguments full of taunts and name calling.

When did it become so universally acceptable for so many people to openly show disdain and even hatred for those who don’t have the same political, social, economic, and religious opinions and beliefs? When did it become cool to be so stubborn and ignorant? How can we truly celebrate Independence Day, when so many of us act as if we are simpletons and puppets?

Of course, we are all human and imperfect. However, each one of us should be striving to be more knowledgeable and generous. Too many people have suffered and sacrificed to keep this great country the United States of America.

We owe it to them, and ourselves, to listen to each other and speak to each other with a positive attitude of both pride and humility. We owe it to our country — past, present, and future. Will Ulmer Woodstock, N.Y.