LETTER: Common ground can only be found through communication

Last week was a great week – the Washington Legislature passed a budget that improves education funding and also approved a Family Leave bill. Locally, the VPD and the VISD came to an agreement regarding The Commons. What these events have in common is communication. In all three instances, no group got everything it wanted. However, the opposing factions listened to each other and progress was made.

A core tenant of our country is free speech – to speak and be heard. Unfortunately, the far right and the far left are driving opposing agendas wherein speakers are not worth hearing if their messages do not match the party line. Not only are contrary opinions dismissed, but the messengers are personally attacked. How sad is it when elected officials will not have town meetings because they know they will be attacked and vilified, with no constructive ideas presented. It is even sadder when friends and neighbors will not discuss opposing views for fear of ending a long term relationship.

It is time to start listening to what the other side has to say. Just as happened in Olympia and Vashon last week, when you listen to ideas you do not like, you still can find common ground, with worthwhile outcomes.

— Scott Harvey