Editor,

Unless I am mistaken, a “darkness” has covered our County, where the hearts of otherwise-good people have turned to hate.

At the start of Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors’ meeting, there was a room full of neighbors clasping hands with smiles evident on faces and in eyes, but within mere heartbeats of an opening Christian prayer, smiles had turned to clenched teeth and all thoughts of Jesus’ love had left the building.

Do those in attendance think the Board and Administrator are out to “hurt” their home County? Do they think that Board members are so financially aloof that they don’t care about their neighbors’ or their own pocketbooks? Have we forgotten that our elected neighbors serve their local government, generously giving their time, out of a desire to make their County/Town/home better? Whether or not we agree with their decisions, our Board and Administration are trying to do what they think is right.

Do we as citizens have a right to disagree? Certainly, but rights come with responsibilities. Even the most passionate argument should be made with respect for the other person and for one’s self.

The decisions surrounding the Courthouse pose significant challenges. However, this community will certainly face other challenges. One’s mettle is only tested in times of adversity. How we respond to this challenge is a reflection of our character. No one is expected to be perfect, but all who take up space on a Sunday pew are expected to be civil, displaying the Divine Love they, themselves, seek.

Best go early, church should be full this Sunday.

Rick Francis

Boykins