Editor, Gazette-Journal:

Every morning when we wake up, we wake up as Americans and we know who we are. Some of us are older, some of us are younger and some of us are in between; women and men, boys and girls.

We have different skin colors and ethnic backgrounds. But we all wake up as Americans and we love our country.

We want equality for all. We want justice for all. We want the children in our country to thrive and be free. I have no children of my own, but I have many nieces and nephews. So I know we all want our children to be free and safe and happy, because we are Americans.

Some of us fear God, some of us love God and some of us have no relationship with God. But we are still all Americans. We are families, friends, co-workers and neighbors.

So, when we wake up tomorrow, perhaps we can wake to many thoughtful ways for others, more respect, kindness and consideration. More smiles and handshakes. Or a pat on the back. And remember that when we come face to face with others,...