This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.

A Silver Lining

Attending the 9-11 Memorial at the Madison Memorial Town Hall brought back the horror of that day, which took so many innocent lives. It also recognized the bravery and sacrifice (so many who gave the ultimate sacrifice) of all first responders who rushed to help those who became helpless under this attack.

I can remember the atmosphere of our country after this tragedy. For some time after we all pulled together, helping one another more, perhaps a bit more kind to each other. Our civility to one another was at an all time high, perhaps a silver lining in a very dark time.

Sadly, our country is now deeply divided, which is very unsettling, fueled by the lack of media conscience and the power hungry versus what’s good and right for our country. It is within our power today to bring back that civility, dialogue constructively and recognize the importance and dignity in each of us?

We are coming close to an election in our town of Madison.

While I am a strong supporter of Tom Banisch for what I consider his unselfish leadership, which contributed so much to our town and will give so much more, I am also very grateful to all in our town government, no matter the party affiliation, who selflessly serve us each day. I commend Peggy Lyons for stepping up and hope that this year’s campaign will focus on the town’s needs and not participate in uncivil attack rhetoric and editorials.

Sept. 11 brought out the best in our country in civil support for each other. Let us always respect those innocents we lost that day, along with the strength, character, and sacrifice of our brave first responders by underpinning civility to one another and working together constructively.

Naïve? I pray not!

Mike Piccione

Madison