LINCOLN: Let's all listen

I read and thoroughly enjoyed your editorial Wednesday entitled “Lincoln Day Message for the Ages.” As someone from Illinois, the Land of Lincoln and grew up in a very diverse hometown, the first Republican president was revered as a moral leader who guided our country through an exceptionally divisive period.

On Tuesday, in the course of the service to the citizens of Kootenai County as Clerk, I had the opportunity to speak with the Chairs of both major parties. I talked with Paula Neils, Kootenai County Democratic Party Chair, and it was a terrific conversation. She spoke about the energy of her party and I listened. I spoke to her regarding additional voter registration cards for voter drives for the Democratic Party and she listened. Paula is a Democrat, I am a Republican and yet we had a productive and civil exchange. I hope we continue this dialogue.

Later that day, I visited with Kootenai County Republican Chairman Brent Regan before the Republican Central Committee meeting and had a very worthwhile exchange on other election matters. I also wish to continue these exchanges.

At the Lincoln Day Event hosted by the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee, keynote speaker Mike Baker spoke of broadening your perspective. Coeur d’Alene Press Editor Mike Patrick then wrote of exchanging ideas and disagreeing respectfully.

President Lincoln learned by listening to different points of view. I appreciate the timeless lessons we can all use. We were created with two ears and one mouth. Listen to understand, communicate your vision in a controlled way and be approachable by others, including and especially those with different thoughts and values.

JIM BRANNON

Kootenai County Clerk