“A house divided against itself cannot stand.” (Abraham Lincoln, 1858).

I am writing to ask that we all work to lessen divisiveness and to deepen acceptance of difference.

“Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” (John Dalberg-Action, 1870).

Persons in authority are susceptible to corruption of moral sense and equanimity. This corruption leads often to horrific wielding of power to suppress differences.

All people, regardless of backgrounds: cultural; religious; racial; educational; class status, yearn for peace, liberty, justice and acceptance. Our Republic is designed to share power among the branches and, importantly, among the people. Diffusion of power helps protect against corruption and abuse of authority.

I urge us to express our different ideas while: giving all the freedom to speak; respecting thought with which we disagree; avoiding violence or anger.

Can we remain united in our commitment to speaking our beliefs without trying to silence others? Only then, does the house remain united despite the diversity of ideas among its inhabitants.

To this end, hear the words written prior to the Revolutionary War, just as Lincoln’s words were spoken prior to the Civil War.

“Then join hand in hand… all. By uniting we stand, by dividing we fall.” (The Liberty Song, John Dickinson, 1768).

Linda Vogel

Mystic