An important lesson

As a lifelong educator, mother and grandmother, I view this election as an opportunity to teach an important lesson to the next generation.

Will we hold up for leadership an example of a person who has dedicated their life to public service? A woman who is a role model of resilience and determination, who knows first hand the adversity and public scrutiny one can experience when working for "the common good.

Can we show our children that good leaders listen, can change their minds, respect others, show restraint, because they are driven by inner-core values that define who they are and not by how others define you?

Or will we hold up for leadership a model of a person who has spent his life building a "personal empire" at the expense of others? A man known for his consumption and rude behavior. A candidate who displays all the behaviors we work against in our bullying society, making fun of others, name-calling, threatening those who have different views than us.

The choice is ours.

Marlene Sweeney

Hanover Park