I understand that the Koch brothers reportedly planned to spend $400 million to support their candidates and causes in this last election. That would be $400,000,000 from one family—and some still say the rich aren't attempting to buy our democracy? Thankfully, what we witnessed on election night was still the result of grass-roots democracy in action. Thank God enough Americans could see through the fear mongering, bigotry, and manipulation.

The two -party system is much needed and much valued in America. It works when representatives of each party are willing to discuss, investigate, research, debate, reconstruct, and compromise in order to meet a common goal. Our nation is politically divided, yet this is good as long as we work together to make a better life for generations to come. Dogmatic representation—hardened and uncooperative—creates stagnation and decay in our government. It is up to you and me to prevent stagnation and to stimulate the exchange and development of cooperative ideas.

Let this past election motivate us to serve our communities. Let us each give of our time, talents, and resources toward making life better. Let's each squash our fears of "those people" and start volunteering and community building. When one volunteers, one gains insight, compassion, understanding and, in turn, hardened beliefs evolve into constructive cooperation. Change starts with each of us. We-the-people need to work together for a better America—a better economy, better environment, better health care, better public education system, and equality under the law for all. We can do this if we get off the couch and get out and volunteer. You are the solution; believe in yourself and believe in America.

-- Ethel Landers - Nipomo

-- Ethel Landers - Nipomo