Democrats can learn from Cole’s tenacity

I was prepared to send Althea Cole another letter vigorously debating her views. I’m not necessarily being a fan of hers, particularly after she portrayed our Minnesota governor as an unfit candidate for V.P. months ago. After reading her column on Sunday (“Liberals cushioned, conservatives sharpened) I even surprised myself. Although she neatly puts Liberals and Conservatives in a nice-fitting box, her arguments are valid and she balances the liberal bent of The Gazette. Please keep her around so the down-and-out Democrats can learn from her tenacity, her convictions and her brave stand.

Growing up in Iowa and attending college in the 1960’s at somewhat liberal-centric Parsons College in Fairfield, I received quite an education in what we call progressivism now. I was introduced to many East Coast students and their often eccentric ways. I also befriended a very conservative student who helped me in my studies, taught me how to take notes in class and did more researching and studying than any other person I knew. He was my trainer, my shadow; I looked up to him. The result: I learned how to balance both sides of the social, political and economic scale by being exposed to diverse views.

I often read articles like Ms. Cole writes to get a better perspective of the other side. I often disagree, but her article shows we can learn from each other. Isn’t that a major point in being an informed citizen?

Kamel Aossey

Minnetonka, MN