To the Editor,

The election has already started, and the sides have been drawn by both parties, but there are still many who are holding out for the actual election day to cast their ballot.

In the meantime, those who feel their views must be expressed in their editorials has ramped up to the point of question, “Why?” Do you really feel that if you write vitrail comments about the opposing candidate, you will enlighten those with another view? It divides you from your friends, especially when you refer to the op- posing view or voter as “Stupid.”

I have many a family and “friends” who feel that talking behind my back is falling on deaf ears, and that those who are silently listening to your rants, agree with what is said. The silent people who choose not to support your thoughts and not get into a discussion with you, are quietly sharing your unthoughtful comments with the offended.

I have had two grandchildren who do not agree with their parents and have been horrified with the vitriol discussions they have overheard, to the point where they have come to me to express their concern. It was painful for them to have heard their parents talk in a negative way about their loving grandmother and my choice in candidates. I have not blown their cover, but they do know I feel very offended by their discussions.

I see so many prominent couples also have opposing views, and it destroys their relationship when the other expresses comments that you know are not true. Their reasoning for their differences in opinions would not be something I would agree with, but I do not feel I have the right to berate them or tell them they are wrong, like they do to me.

In conclusion, I will continue to speak positively about my candidate and their views, I will quietly share my support for my candidate, but I do not feel I need to write an editorial bashing candidates and those who stand behind them. Silence is golden and I hope you see that when either candidate wins, the opposing voice is not of anger and bitterness. Remember, this presidential election is a 50/50 race, half of the voters do not agree with you, and you cannot say 50% of the voters are “Stupid.”

See? I did this without saying a candidate’s name nor party, try it, you might feel kinder and less aggressive.

Leslie Derrig