Let’s reinforce good, positive behavior

Let’s reinforce good, positive behavior

There is a big storm brewing in our state and in our nation between “conservatives” and “liberals” and I appreciate the coverage by which the Daily Herald alerts us to the issues. The Nov. 2 and 3 editions reported on Tea Party organizations on the national level, and the Restore Illinois Summit convention at Rosemont. I hope voters are paying attention to the negative attitudes being expressed by many so-called conservatives.

Psychologists understand that the most effective way to improve behavior is to notice and reinforce good behavior when it occurs.

My father used to quote the Bible reference from Paul’s letter to the Phillippians, Chapter 4, Verse 8: Finally brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence, and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things.

Jack Roeser’s comments about unions and schools after Joe Walsh introduced him with: “this guy was Tea Party before anyone thought to put those words together” offended me. I watch the children in my neighborhood from struggling families mature and become beautiful people and am grateful for good public schools.

Ellen McDonald

South Elgin