Letter to the Editor
He wrote his letter nearly twenty-five years ago, a relatively quiet time and well before the onslaught of digital media. He chose to act as a public citizen. He valued the power of letters to the editor.
He was indicating his love for his students and that they have the resources they need. Who knows who read his letter, what affect it might have had on his colleagues, on the public. But his act of writing contributed to the greater good. And when we choose with Norm to take a public stand for something we believe in and value, it takes courage.
In today’s polarized times, Norm’s letter invites us to take a public stand. We may already feel pressure from many sides. When we choose to engage in public matters, today confronting threats to the dismantling of our democracy, it possibly means taking a risk. It will likely be more than writing one letter.
Deciding whether to stay ‘within’ or to ‘reach out’ is ours to make. A letter to the editor would be a beginning. Or a post on Facebook. A conversation with a friend over coffee. Attending a school board meeting to support teachers. A call to your Congressman.
