To the Editor:
I wrote a letter earlier this month, suggesting the start of a local discussion group of anyone that has concerns and would like to have our lives become more pleasant again [“Why waste these gifts?” The Altamont Enterprise, Oct. 6, 2022].

The few people I have spoken to all agree that the state of affairs in most places is not what it should be and needs a serious “re-boot.”

However, people appear to be afraid to speak up, openly. They are afraid that their friends will not ever speak to them again, having a different mindset, their neighbors would be mad at them.

It's hard to believe that a democratic country could turn into a “silenced” country, especially when it concerns matters of our life and continued enjoyment of our country’s freedom.

Stating one’s concerns calmly and civilly should be the start of a good conversation and a problem-solving one at that, a challenge, not a matter of fear.

Maybe my idea was not a good one?

But I am not giving up that easily. I believe that, if there is a will, there is a way.

People who may wish to form such a group can reach me by phone at 518-872-2520 or by email at gudrun.bellerjeau@gmail.com.

There does not have to be a big investment of time outside of the home. It could be easily done via emails or phone.

My initial thought was that interested persons would list their concerns in order of importance and their proposed solutions — a starting point of discussion, so to speak.

Good things will come out of many people’s good suggestions that all could agree on, eventually.

A working platform can be established and built upon.

Good discussions and compromise have always been the solution to the often diverging ideals of our country.

Giving up and not getting involved is admitting defeat.

We all have too much to lose and the result will be that the true American spirit and life as we have known it, will be a thing of the past. People of other nationalities, who admire our country’s accomplishments will certainly be happy to take the reins, putting their home-country’s stamp and ideologies in our country.

Complaining does not do any good; thoughtful action will work.

Gudrun Bellerjeau

Knox