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The language we use says a lot about us

Opinion

Ancient proverbs can be helpful in adjusting our language and behavior in ways that can benefit every generation. They have become ancient because they work. One example: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger “ (Proverbs 15:1). It means calm, patient and kind words can de-escalate conflict, while harsh, angry responses provoke further rage. Try it sometime when you are in an argument with someone. Display humility, or say “I can see how you feel that way, but may I share my view?” The language we use to communicate with one another can heal or wound, ...

Letters show you care about country

Letters to the Editor

The news lately, especially the last year, has been enough to make our heads spin about. I’ve heard of speed reading, but we may need lessons on speed listening to keep up with the sound bites. Of course, some people don’t pay much attention to it and that’s their right; a right that they’re wasting. So many things happening in Washington haven’t happened before or for a long time. That’s why I’m asking people to write to the editor of your local newspaper when you read something that bothers you and after it’s written, hit print and send it to your congressperson. The ...

Restoring Gable’s worth the effort

Editorials

While it is far-fetched to even be thinking in the following way, the main point of that thought process has a worthy objective behind it for the city of Altoona. Here goes: How wonderful it would be if some Altoona lottery player were to win a hundreds-of-millions or a billion-dollar Powerball or Mega Millions jackpot and decide to do something special and great for this wonderful city? Some people also might wonder whether there might be enough wealth in and around the city whereby a number of individuals or entities might be willing and able to come forward to make possible the ...

Local SSA angels deserve praise

Letters to the Editor

On Monday, Jan. 12, I had an appointment at the Altoona Social Security Administration office. While awaiting my appointment time, a loud, uncooperative man continued to verbally disrespect the female SSA representative. I noticed the security guard as he kept “one eye” on the loud subject. After 30 minutes of “back and forth” disagreement, the man walked out loudly swearing. Yes, these are the Federal employees placed on furlough for 45 days while their paychecks were being held back. Thank you “rank and file” SSA Patriots. Stephen Timothy Hanczar Tyrone

Support urged for House Bill 1957

Letters to the Editor

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives recently passed HB 1957, a joint resolution that would begin the constitutional amendment process to protect reproductive rights in the Pennsylvania Constitution. The next step is for the resolution to be passed in identical form by the Pennsylvania Senate. I call on all elected officials, especially Judy Ward, to set aside personal, moral or religious beliefs when voting on this measure. This resolution does not impose policy; it simply allows the people of Pennsylvania to decide the issue directly through a popular vote. Voting against this ...

America a challenge to ‘might makes right’

Letters to the Editor

Donald Trump would have us believe that the “real” world is one governed by strength, power and force. A world where “might makes right.” A world where America can threaten, coerce or attack anyone anywhere to serve its perceived interests. Indeed, “might makes right” was the governing standard for human civilization throughout most of history. Power and strength ruled. The few at the top prospered. Life for everyone else was miserable. That is, until that paradigm was challenged 250 years ago … when America’s founding fathers charted an alternate course. Unwilling ...