I am writing in support of the Woodstove Alliance's resolution, which is currently in front of the Rockland City Council. I am thrilled about this initiative and the positive message it sends about the kind of place Rockland strives to be. This resolution represents an opportunity for Rockland to show leadership of the most positive kind — leadership that will be an example for other cities and towns in Knox County, and throughout the state.

When I grew up we didn't "talk politics" very much; instead, my family focused on promoting values within our own household, perhaps with the belief that raising "good people" would be enough to make the world a better place. I think this is a common attitude among rural New Englanders who value their privacy, even as they energetically engage with their communities.

But we are living in a time when we cannot afford to hold our values close any longer. We have seen in the news that people who believe in hate and division have been emboldened. Those of us whose values include love, inclusion and caring for our neighbors must also be bold. We must make our message heard, and be so loud that the other messages — the ones that spread fear and do harm — are drowned out. It is our duty; we are the ones who must let the light in.

Adopting this resolution is a deeply patriotic act, one that speaks to our nation's purest and highest ideals. I hope Rockland will take the lead — and that the rest of us will follow as soon as possible.

Regina Rooney lives in Hope