Dear Editor:

Our small seaside community has always been a place of connection, tradition and shared values, where we care deeply for our neighbors, families and the future we are creating together for our community. It's where we teach our children the power of compassion, respect, understanding and to work hard. That's why I feel compelled to respond to a recent letter that, while passionate, risks sowing division in a time when our community needs unity more than ever. The Harbor is a special place where kindness should be the foundation of every conversation, no matter how divided our opinions may be. We will always stand up to Hate.

Over the years I've learned that politics stir deep passions, as they should. But we are more than just labels. No one's true character can be summed up by the harsh names thrown around in today's rhetoric. We are all part of this community! I believe in standing shoulder to shoulder with my neighbors and not because we agree on everything, but because our shared humanity is bigger than our differences. I would proudly stand at a pride parade with your son or daughter, just as would walk beside your family at a Veterans Day march. I believe we can create a world that's beautiful not just for you and I, but for everyone.

This isn't about losing sight of our values, it's about living with them. We can be passionate without being cruel! Let's show our children that strength lies in kindness, that courage means standing up for others, and that community means no one gets left behind, like on the ball field.

Our community thrives when we celebrate what unites us. Let's protect not just the Constitution, but the shared bonds that make our country great.

Michael Gaffney

Edgecomb