How often do you hear, “If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem?” Sounds pretty simple, only because it is. Look around, take your pick. We have a lot of problems to pick from! They may range from serious problems everyone is aware of clear down to problems we don’t even recognize. There are problems we all share, as well as individual ones.

Remember, a few we have control over, some we can influence. WE are the government but do we get involved, or even know what is going on? If we don’t communicates our thoughts to our elected employees, on all levels, two things happen. We soon will have no right to complain, and we have become part of the problem. On the other hand, if, you try to communicate, with your representatives with suggestions, or questions, and they do not respond, for any reason, are they part of the problem? If you think they are – vote them out!

It’s really simple. Let’s say you get poor service at a fast food restaurant but don’t tell the manager. When it happens again, could it partially be your fault, for not alerting anyone of the previous problem? Have you become part of the problem? Yes, it’s a small thing, but a good example.

Neiter the government, nor the police, have enough eyes to see, or know, everything. We have to help them, by using our eyes. If you observe anything that doesn’t look right to you, tell someone about your concern. That is the least a good citizen can do! If nothing gets done, at least you know you tried.

Not getting involved – what a revoltin’ development this is!

Jerry Riley comments for the News Bulletin. He is a retired telecommunications supervisor.