United We Stand, Divided We Fall. This statement has its roots in biblical times and has been repeated through the ages by many. Abe Lincoln used this idea in a speech before the American Civil War, and it was used in “The Liberty Song” (1768) written by John Dickinson, just to name a few. Though many people have used it to make various points over the years, the meaning behind it has never changed. Quite simply, it means that people working together as one are much stronger then many individual persons or groups on their own. With combined strength, we are able to stand strong and succeed. If Millinocket is going to recover and grow, the first step is for the citizens to unite as one with the same purpose and goal, economic development.
To begin to do this, the name calling, lies and misinformation needs to stop. Change is an essential part of life. Each and every change brings with it an impact, but it is how we cope with the change that makes the impact either positive or negative. If Millinocket is going to succeed, we need to make the changes be a positive force for the town. Respecting the opinions of others is not that difficult if we all choose to treat people the way that we want them to treat us. Variety of opinion is what makes life interesting and rather than try to deny people the right to their opinion, we should welcome the fact that in this country, we are all able and allowed to have an opinion.
We also are allowed the right to vote, to assemble, and for freedom of speech. We need a town council that understands this and does not try to deny citizens their rights. If we allow them to deny us the right to vote on issues we feel are important to the community, what will be next?
