Written and posted by District Leader, Robert Weir

Sometimes we must speak up for nonviolent resolution to conflict. And sometimes we must remind our government representatives of their responsibility to listen to the people.

When I saw the article in the Kalamazoo Gazette about a proposed bill that would allow Michigan teachers to carry guns in school, I immediately telephoned the offices of the three legislators mentioned in the article. I stated, "The legislation is absurd," and that, instead, we should be teaching and promoting nonviolent conflict resolution skills in our schools.

The aides of representatives Lorence Wenke and Jack Hoogendyk listened politely and promised to convey my messages to their bosses.

But the aide for Representative Dave Agema (R-Grandville), who initiated the legislation, quickly interrupted me and started telling me why the bill was necessary. I, in turn, interrupted him and said, "Excuse me, but let me remind you of your role in government. Your salary is paid with tax dollars," I said, "That means your job is to listen to the public. And I, as a citizen of Michigan, disagree with this legislation. I think it is absurd. Will you please convey that message to Representative Agema?"

The aide and I talked more, both of us expressing our points of view and neither of us agreeing with the other. But we did talk, and we did so politely. Finally, the aide said to me, "Well, I'm glad we talked." And I said, "That's exactly my point. We get much further with dialogue than we do with gunslinging. The days of Wyatt Earp and John Wayne are gone. We must have a new procedure to overcome conflict, and that procedure is discussion. Now, will you promise that you will deliver my message?" He said he would.

My point is this. Sometimes we have to be strong when talking with government officials and their staff, especially when they forget they were hired to serve us, we, the people.