One good by product of a water leak in your house is the need to look at all of the stuff you have accumulated and decide if those things still have meaning for you. So many picture albums from the way back days. Many of the images are of people who you may not recall. I did come across an old leather bound album that had my Grandmother Mary’s name and inside were three pictures of Ed and Uncle Dick in the signature coveralls. I have to keep these, my dad was tall and thin and Dick was shorter with those cool ears. Dick used to say that his ears looked like a taxi cab with its doors open. At any rate, these pictures are priceless and brought back very good memories of growing up in Pocatello with a very supportive family.
Ed worked for the Union Pacific Railroad and was a proud Union member. Uncle Dick was a Public Accountant and a devout Republican. Grandmother Mary did not allow political discussions at any of her gatherings. I did witness one heated family exchange about the integrity and honesty of Richard Nixon but for the most part they kept it civil.
In Idaho today many people have lost the ability or maybe the interest in respectfully listening to other views. I was very pleased to read about a new group, Idaho Leaders United. The mission states “Idaho Leaders united stands with the vast majority of Idahoans who reject bigotry and political violence. Together we will defend the great state of Idaho, her future, and her legacy for every generation that follows.”
I have known Tommy Alquist, the CEO of BVA for many years, he is a quality individual. The other founding members are well known in Idaho and are leading by example. Idaho Leaders will speak out against bigoted and violent appeals and remind fellow Idahoans that we are better off when we work together across our divides without resorting to extremism. You can take the Pledge which clearly states the guiding principals and non negotiable values. I hope you will check out the website site and “A Call to Courage.”
The current culture war and extreme ideologies are a significant threat to our State. Medical professionals are rethinking if they can safely practice in Idaho. The list of extremist views is long and it will take the generally silent majority to turn the tide.
Enjoy the week but please, no complaint about the heat we will feel on Sunday.
Mike