Inevitable change

My response to “Grow up, Lefties” and “New Year, same story” (Jan. 6).

The writers of these letters and many similar contributions to the Review imply that being a progressive is bad and that holding to some ideal mythology of the past is good. Obviously Americans are choosing two different realities.

I believe progressives accept that change is constant and inevitable, we try to envision a world we would like to live in and influence change in a positive way. I suggest that it is fear of change that motivates many on the right. Change that is inevitable. Fear that motivates them to arm themselves. Fear of people coming to the U.S. for a better life. Fear of not having all the material possessions they believe is their right.

Within ten years there will be 10 billion humans on our already stressed to the max planet. Walls and isolation won’t protect us. Treating others as we would like to be treated lifts all. If we Americans are as innovative and hard working as we claim, what do we have to fear? Let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work. This is our only choice, there is no going back!

Gordon Webb

Hayden