Respect the process
Regarding “Lack of leadership” (Page A16, Wednesday), one of the first things I learned as a candidate for elective office was that there are usually two sides to every issue and that there are people of good will who view the issues differently. On most issues there isn’t a morally right or wrong side, just a different opinion. It is essential for the success of our democratic form of government that candidates and citizens recognize and respect those differences of opinion, as well as those who hold them. They are why debates take place and elections are held: to resolve those disagreements peacefully and in a civilized manner.
A corollary to this revelation is that it is helpful to listen to what they other person is saying — both to understand where he/she is coming from and perhaps learn something about your own thinking that might be modified.
Over time opinions may change; different circumstances or more information may lead to changed minds and new policies. In the meantime, a key to the success of our form of government and an orderly society is the commitment of all citizens to respect the time-tested process; appreciate when government’s decisions agree with our opinion and respectful acceptance when it doesn’t.
The alternative is constant divisive combat, which is not constructive. James “Jim” Greenwood III, Houston