'Respectful dialogue' needed for health-care reform

Green Bay Press Gazette Opinion Page
Posted August 28, 2009

GREEN BAY — "Those who are hot-tempered stir up strife, but those who are slow to anger calm contention." (Proverbs 15:18)

In the past several weeks the "hot-tempered" have been getting a lot of press. They are creating conflict and are making civilized discussion regarding health-care reform nearly impossible.

It is easy to throw up our hands in despair and lament, "What can I do?" I believe it is time for all of us to take a deep breath, calm our emotions and act as those who are "slow to anger."

We need to pay attention to the facts and stay focused on the goal — affordable, accessible health care for all. But first we need respectful dialogue

Yes, we have differences in our opinions. Health care reform is an enormous issue. There are no easy answers. So, I plead to the people of Northeast Wisconsin, let's provide safe places for conversation.
Let's listen to one another. And let's not allow the "hot-tempered" to determine our future.

The Rev. Sarah Hart Johnsen,
president, JOSHUA Religious Leaders