If you had one wish for North Dakota in 2021, what would it be and why?
Peace on earth
I know that the quality of life in North Dakota is one of our important ideas that we all strive for. I think that North Dakota is the best place to live for a quality life. Our motto as the “Peace Garden State” put the state in a place where a peaceful quality of life should exist.
I was interested in the idea to start a “peace study” at the “Peace Gardens.” I think the state of North Dakota should begin with the idea that to have a peaceful world, we must start with peace with each person, peace together in families, peace as communities, peace within our “Peace Garden State,” peacefulness in our nation, and, ultimately, in the nations of the world.
This peace is a human right that all humans, I believe, could accept for a quality life. Therefore, I would like to suggest that our “Peace Garden State” be known for peace and quality of life.
One thing I would like to suggest is to use the song, “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” written by Jill Jackson-Miller and Sy Miller in 1955. It would be nice if this song is sung by people at the many events during the year.
We think peace is “too big” of an issue, but if we each can begin peace, hopefully the “Peace Garden State” can be a leader to a peaceful world.
The words are: “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me. Let there be peace on earth, the peace that was meant to be! With God as our father, brothers all are we. Let me walk with my brother in perfect harmony. Let peace begin with me. Let this be the moment now. With every breath I take, let this be my solemn vow; to take each moment and live each moment in peace eternally! Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me!”
Gloria Porter
Cass County Electric Cooperative
Unity and wisdom
My wish for North Dakota in 2021 is that our state would be an example for the rest of the United States, and for the rest of the world. I want North Dakota to be known as a place where everyone can get along, no matter the color of their skin, hair, eyes or T-shirt.
I also think that we need to respect each other, even if we disagree. Republicans and Democrats should be able to have friendly conversations with each other. If we always argue when we disagree, how are we supposed to work together to get anything done? When visitors come to our state, I want them to think, “Wow! People here are really nice! It’s like a big family!”
I also want North Dakota to be a model for other states during the pandemic. Of course, not every state is the same and what works for one may not work for another. But I want North Dakota to demonstrate a good balance between staying safe and still having community.
Having depression is no better than having COVID-19. Both are a problem right now, and both need to be recognized and dealt with. When the vaccines are ready to be distributed, I hope that our leaders will show wisdom in giving them to those who need them most, so that we can get back to normal life as soon as possible – safely!
Elizabeth Hodgson, 15 years old
Cass County Electric Cooperative
Color blindness
If I had one wish for North Dakota in 2021, it would be for color blindness. No more red or blue divisions, no more black, white or red skin tones, just North Dakota citizens united in their commitment for liberty, justice and truth.
I hope we can rise together to the challenges of poverty, racism and COVID-19 and heal the divisions that have torn our state and nation apart. Abraham Lincoln appealed to “the better angels of our nature.”
We need to start with that.
Deb Larson
Capital Electric Cooperative
UPCOMING READER REPLY QUESTION:
FEBRUARY: What was the best decision you made in regard to your post-secondary education?
Deadline for submission: Jan. 13
MARCH: What is your favorite thing about spring in North Dakota?
Deadline for submission: Feb. 12
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