Bless everyone, no exceptions

That headline is from a sign my wife put above the door to our kitchen in opposition to anyone who has other ideas.

This country in its absolute worst state is extremely blessed. At its best, it’s an unstoppable wonder.

To keep our momentum up as a nation, we need to include everybody. This is not selfless idealism; it’s a practical consideration highlighted this week by an autistic young woman I had the pleasure to interview.

The experience was somewhat difficult for her since her conditions limit her abilities somewhat during personal interactions. But it was an eye-opener for me when coupled with her writing that explains what her life has been like. You can read it in this issue’s special supplement on Lake Roosevelt High School graduating class.

Vanessa Ankney’s experience underscores for me the fact that when we leave people behind — through lack of funding for their education or by simply ignoring them because we think they cannot contribute to our efforts — we limit our own capacity, our own ability to achieve as much as we can as a people.

Vanessa, like many others, is an intelligent young person who deserves every chance to succeed. As a nation or as neighbors, we cut ourselves short if we don’t provide it.

That’s why it’s gratifying to see that Washington State University has a program to provide that opportunity. Vanessa will attend their ROAR (Responsibility Opportunities Advocacy and Respect) program this fall.

Do us proud, Vanessa. You’ll make us all better for it.

Scott Hunter

Editor and publisher