Wish list

Nov. 15, 2011

Washington, Ia

To the editor,

As it?s the season for making out wish lists, I?d thought I?d get mine together so Santa can get a jump start on it because it?s rather lengthy. It shouldn?t cost the jolly old elf much money and little effort to fulfill. My wishes are affordable for everyone; the only expenditure is a change of heart and mind.

My wishes are:

1) For our governing officials to govern with integrity, honesty, justice and wisdom.

2) Each of us to look out for the interests of others and not just ourselves.

3) To hear words of appreciation spoken to every postal worker, newspaper carrier, teacher, pastor, Sunday school teacher, police officer, caregiver, and person serving in the armed forces.

4) For the elderly, sick, and mentally ill to be remembered and have the care they need.

5) For children to be able to go to school with confidence and without fear of being bullied or made fun of.

6) For every man, woman and child to have adequate, nutritious food and decent, affordable housing.

7) For plentiful jobs so all can provide for their families and feel needed.

8) For government assistance programs to be used wisely and not taken advantage of.

9) For children to come home from school to warm hugs and not angry, hurtful words from their parents.

10) For computer technology to be used for good and sending words of encouragement and not of gossip or maliciousness.

11) For fathers and mothers to teach their children how to change the oil in their cars, mow the lawn, rake the leaves, do laundry, cook and wash dishes.

12) To see neighbors scooping one another?s sidewalks and sharing crockpot meals.

13) To see more walking, bicycling and outdoor activity and less video game playing and TV watching.

14) To see the same emphasis placed on art and music as is on competitive sports.

15) To have every person treated with kindness and respect regardless of their financial situation or position in the community.

16) Lastly, but most importantly is my wish to hear the words ?God? and ?Jesus? spoken with reverence and awe, and not for cursing and with disdain.

I shall eagerly look forward to checking off each item as I unwrap it this Christmas season and throughout 2012. May everyone who reads this find joy and promise in each priceless gift. Merry Christmas!

Cindy Bean