To the Editor,
Carol Gerrond’s recent letter was a nostalgic ride, from jet engines to Jimmy Kimmel, and while I appreciate a good idiom revival as much as the next person, “Cool your jets!” might not be the rallying cry we need right now.
Yes, emotions are high. Yes, public discourse can get heated. But that’s not necessarily a flaw, it’s often a sign that people care. Deeply. About their rights, their communities, and yes, sometimes about things like justice, equality and decency. Calling out racism, sexism, or bigotry isn’t “yammering”, it’s participating in the messy, vital work of democracy.
We’re often told to be seen and not heard, to stay in our lane, or to tone it down for the comfort of others. But civic engagement isn’t always polite or quiet, and it doesn’t require a one-on-one coffee with the Pope or AOC to have a valid opinion. Our rights to speak, protest, vote and question are fundamental, even if Alexa overhears a few choice words along the way.
So while I respect the call for calmer conversation, I also believe that real change often comes from those who don’t cool their jets, but instead speak up, push forward and demand better.
Sincerely,
Dave Kooi
Kewanee, Ill.
Someone who’s okay with a little steam if it powers progress.
