Welcome opposition

In canvassing in the past three elections, I always thank opponents for participating in the political process. Opposition makes democracy.

The majority and opposition are the two legs of public opinion that have moved our nation forward through the years. Their names reflect the ideologies and changing conditions of the times: Federalists and Democratic-Republicans, Whigs and Democrats, Redeemers and Freedmen, Bourbon Democrats and Copperheads, Republicans and Democrats, liberals and conservatives.

We, the electorate, shift our support from one ideology to the other as conditions change. The metaphor of walking on two legs seems especially fitting since we now call the two primary ideologies the right and the left.

We are currently faced with conditions that demand urgent action: unprecedented disruption of climate systems, unprecedented numbers of refugees, unprecedented power concentrated in a small number of global companies, and an unprecedented rate of change on all levels.

With these realities as the backdrop the current majority has not sought dialogue with the opposition, even eliminating opposition within its own party. Vitriolic attacks divide us exactly when the times demand united, concerted effort. This does not make us more stable or secure. It does not help us move forward nor arrive at our best decisions. It is like trying to balance on one leg.

I think we have been standing on one leg too long and it is past time to shift to the other one. Whether you agree or disagree, be grateful for the opposition. DENISE MARION Hot Springs