It's time to turn over a new leaf

As a New Year's resolution in this time of change, I think it is time for all of us to turn over a new leaf.

While we may not agree on everything, rather than concentrating on our differences as has gone on for the past eight years, why not concentrate on the many areas where we agree? While none of us want or like war, there are times when the people of our country have to stand up to others that would take away the rights and privileges we hold so dear.

As a Vietnam veteran and part of a family that has a tradition of serving in the military when our country called, I am encouraged that even those oppose the current wars support the efforts of our soldiers and, as I do, mourn the loss of every one of them.

It is unfortunate they didn't have the same appreciation for the 58,000 that were lost in the Vietnam War.

If we can get over the way we were treated and all the losses we suffered, I think it is far past time those who have been Bush beaters for the last eight years to grow up and get over it.

This country has more major issues that we are facing now. Rather than being adversarial, we need to join together to solve our problems.

Now that we have a change at the national level, I think it would be proper for all of us to focus on change to end the corruption and incompetence in Illinois and Cook county government.

Ultimately, we, the voters are responsible for who we elect and there seems to be a need for a change there.

Daryl Pratt

Arlington Heights