PRESIDENT: Words set the tone

Unfortunately, we're past the warning of name calling. Both sides of our government are guilty, including American citizens. But our president isn't helping by calling members of the opposite side of the government, "idiots, stupid, dumb as a rock," and more. 

This doesn't solve the problem, it only divides our country. There are citizens that think it's OK, there will be some that think they should do something drastic. 

During my time of growing up in the 40s through the 70s, it didn't matter which party you belonged to. That's the democratic way. The president took an oath to be the president for all the people, not just the Republicans. So, where do we go from here?

The veterans that fought in the war didn't ask the guy next to him whether he was a Democrat or Republican. They fought to save our country and our independence. They were protecting their buddy and putting their life on the line for our country.

It's so crazy that we're even talking about this. We can express our views in a much more positive way, without the name calling. We live in the greatest country in the world. Why would we want to destroy that?

Other countries look up to us, but I'm sure they're now wondering what is going on with the United States of America.

Let's turn down the heat and show each other respect instead of the finger. It's OK to ask an old lady if there's any way you can help. That's a good thing. Try it and see what kind of response you get. Cheers!

WALLY ERICKSON

Coeur d'Alene