Dear Editor
I have the great privilege of personally knowing and having great respect each and every candidate running for office here is North Ogden. After talking extensively with the candidates I can honestly say I believe that not one of the candidates and probably very few of their supporters actually think they are slinging mud. I see genuine desperation from all sides to make sure people know what rotten things are going on so citizens don't accidentally vote for the wrong candidate. It's easy to just listen to one side and believe what you hear, I hope I can offer some perspective. Here are some principles that I think could help us all to move forward supporting whomever our cities vote to serve after this election and future ones as well. These are all things I am willing to do 100% and hope candidates and citizens alike will at least consider:
1. Study candidates voting records when available, their platforms, and their attitudes; then make your decision based on these criteria rather than on what your neighbor or even the newspaper says.
2. If you hear something negative or even witness something yourself, question whether you really need to share it with anyone else. We all make mistakes. My Mom is always reminding me of one of her favorite mantras: Is it kind? Is it true? Is it necessary?
3. Assume the best.
4. Be involved in positive ways.
5. Be friends. Don't just automatically jump off the friendship wagon with someone because you have different ideas or are supporting different candidates.
6. Respect other people's ideas. It is a good thing to have an opinion about how our government should operate and stay informed on issues, but don't just assume ideas that contradict your own are evil or wrong.
7. Forgive and forget. Remember how we are all friends and neighbors- and humans.
Thanks,
Stacey Giatras
