What I learned this week: the world is full of hatred and apathy with no regard for political persuasion or religious affiliation. What I have heard and read this past week has made me sad and frightened. Apparently debate is not part of the curriculum taught in schools any more. Throwing out angry comments and using vile language is not debating the issues. Debate involves speaking and listening and backing your words with facts.I am saddened by how much hatred and lack of respect I have witnessed. I am not a democrat. I am not a republican. I do not belong to a religious institution. I am not morally owned by my employer. I'm just me. There is something inside me, maybe you call it God, soul, light, code of morals, that tells me what is right and wrong.

A week ago I went to the Maine Wildlife Park and stood next to a coyote, patted a moose and a mountain lion, walked through a fox pen and felt humble and safe. We could learn a lot from the natural world.