Editor,

As long as I’ve been on this beautiful island, there has been an extravagant display of personal and public fireworks.  It’s tradition; it rings as a citizen’s right. I too love to celebrate our country’s innovative spirit, but am afraid dismissing the discussion of banning fireworks ignores the greater population of Langley and Whidbey both. If this was just about my preferences, I would not be writing.

My real concern is that it reveals a sign of something gone awry. I wonder, in fact, if something more profound has been lost. That is, our connection and awareness to the soul. The soul of neighbor, whether it be two or four legged, winged or whale. This begins with the soul of self, opening heart with thought of mind, so one can deeply feel.

What we are witnessing is the refusal of council and commissioners alike to see into the hearts of those suffering and act on their behalf. To see the possibility of peace and civility as we are emerging as a new nation: black and white, native and settler, north and south. We are all American; we are interconnected. To make decisions from the mind alone leaves this consciousness in the dark.

Rather, a true leader listens to the ancient wisdom of our place. The greater mystery rarely is integral in making policy or changing ordinances, but nonetheless remains. Perhaps this letter will be misunderstood. And perhaps that’s the dilemma. So few of us have a genuine voice in current government and are no longer represented. This is part of the change and challenge, for all of us collectively.

Thank you for giving countless beings a voice.

SHIRLEY JANTZ

Langley