Editor:

We couldn’t help but notice that, in the selection of letters regarding Idyllwild Indivisible, there were two discrete types of correspondence.

The letters from members or their associates were literate, considered and dispassionate, and addressed the issues in a rational manner.

Those from what we assume are their opponents showed the subtle rhetorical dynamics of nursery school. The level of vitriol is unnecessary and demeans those who hold differing views while still wishing the best for our republic. We hardly know what Idyllwild Indivisible is all about, but just by reading the pro and con letters, it’s clear who is more rational.

Societies will always have — and should always have — differing views but, as Thomas Jefferson memorably said in his first inaugural address, “… every difference of opinion is not a difference of principle” and “… error of opinion may be tolerated where reason is left free to combat it.”

Mark and Sally Salter

Fern Valley