We must move beyond narrow self-interest

To the editor:

Some of the reasons our parents and grandparents made it through World War 1, the 1918 pandemic, the Great Depression, and World War 2 was their sense of responsibility, of duty, and of respecting those in authority. Not placing their individual rights above the rights of others, above their responsibility to their fellow citizens, neighbors and community members.

A second more powerful wave of the coronavirus is all but certain now as so many show a reckless disregard for the health and safety of others. Our leadership has not met the challenges of our time. Or provided the example of moral courage, integrity, and honor our citizens need to move beyond their narrow self-interest and join in a united effort to overcome this crisis.

We must be led by leaders who inspire us to make sacrifices and contribute to the general welfare of all our citizens. We must have leadership that eschews blame and recrimination, that engenders good will, cooperation, and trust among the American people. The next election is not about a political party. It is about the character of our leadership.

- Jim Turner, Fairfield