Dear Editor:

Used to be an America in which its citizens were encouraged to voice their opinions without condemnation, it’s called free speech.
 
Used to be an America in which our children were taught reading, writing and arithmetic with “social” issues left up to the parents.
 
Used to be an America that valued all of its citizens regardless of race, creed or sexual orientation.
 
Used to be an America in which elected “leaders” actually listened to the people and governed accordingly without foisting outlandish ideas and forcing compliance.
 
Used to be an America whose sovereign boundaries were respected, valued and protected.
 
Used to be an America where diligence and hard work were not only encouraged, but respected, which ensured all could attain the “American dream.”
 
Used to be that our economy was thriving, people were able to support their families without worrying about how to afford food, fuel or to heat their homes.
 
Used to be an America that fought vehemently against socialism and communism.
 
Used to be an America that respected the flag, stood for the national anthem and whose citizens were “proud to be an American.”
 
Where are we now?

Barbara Britton

Wiscasset