To the Editor:

There’s so much tension in the air these days. Will we devolve into another Civil War or find a middle road? We’re a very diverse nation with very diverse philosophies about what government should do.

The first responsibility of a government is to keep its citizens safe. Is this happening today in America?

I am not a victim of anything but my own choices. I have the power to change my future.

Many people want to ascribe their circumstances to anything but their own choices. Personal responsibility is unacceptable to them, but it is the hallmark of an adult. It is my choice how I react. God gave us free will.

Dealing with unresolved hurt and restlessness and funneling that into politics makes a very angry person. It’s not the left that makes people angry and emotional, it’s emotional and angry people that gravitate towards the left.

So, a false narrative gets them angry and when confronted with facts they get even more angry. Can they defend their position with specific facts?

Without researching the things you believe, there’s a good chance you don’t completely know what you’re talking about. Think critically and don’t lazily indulge in groupthink.

Of course, the right also needs to become more adult in political conversations. We may do some good if we remain open to listening and keep a civil attitude.

Just because someone has different values does not make them evil. They may be uninformed, but they are still fellow Americans. Friends, family, and neighbors should be gently educated in a civil manner.

Political bills have very nice, deceiving titles that sound honorable. The devil is in the details.

Research at: senate.gov and govinfo.gov

If enough of us become responsible adults we can circumvent another Civil War.

Bryan Hermansdorfer

Danbury