Editor, Gazette-Journal:

 

I agree with Santa (Bird’s Eye View cartoon, Dec. 19 issue) that this past year, in particular, has shown us all how uncivil and impolite we can be to each other. If we can’t get beyond Stage 3, Level 2—conformity to consideration of others—of Kohlberg’s (1958) three levels of moral development, we will never evolve as a society. When future societies look back, do we “just” want to be remembered for being polite?

 

Instead of attacking those women and children (who make up 50 percent of the poverty level in our nation), consider this: We are paying taxes for welfare, SNAP, etc., because large store chains hire part time (less than 32 hours per week in Virginia) and yet continue to prosper financially, while leaving their employees without a minimum wage ($7.25/hour x 40 hours/week = $15,080/year) to live on. As taxpayers, we are subsidizing fellow citizens because of the immoral employment practices of major chains.

 

We can all do our part by firstly learning to be more compassionate and empathic to each other. If you can move forward to the next level of moral development, there is one last opportunity to make a difference in our community by Dec. 31. Thanks to an anonymous donor, every dollar donated online to the Gloucester Community Foundation Endowment Fund, which supports local charitable organizations, will be matched up to $10,000. Online donations can be made at www.gloucestercf.org. After selecting “Give” and “Contribute Online,” select the Gloucester Community Endowment as the designated fund; but you only have until Tuesday, Dec. 31 to double your contribution!

 

By embracing each other in an act of kindness and compassion, we can all begin to move up to a higher level of moral development this new year.

 

Pam Douglas

Gloucester, Va.