By Jude Toohey
Orange Republican Town Committee
Jude Toohey
Happy May to each of you. We are fortunate in this part of our country to experience the beauty of changing seasons. Spring has always been a time of wonder, filled with new beginnings and the promise of life. Before long, summer will be here, bringing with it all the wonderful activities our town has to offer.
Have you ever wondered why so many of us have chosen to make Orange our home? As someone who tries to see the good in people and lives with a grateful heart, I often reflect on this question.
Many have roots here that run generations deep – families whose names grace our streets, parks and buildings. Others thoughtfully researched where they wanted to live and deliberately chose Orange.
This week, while speaking with a business owner, I shared some of what makes our town so special and how strong our sense of community feels. This person, who neither lives in Orange nor operates a business here, told me they believe our town is a wonderful place to live. They credited our strong community spirit to our town leaders and noted that, even as we grow we do so in a respectful way. I have always been proud to call Orange my home, but comments like these fills me with an even deeper sense of pride.
I have been reminded this month of how important it is to stay positive. But I would not be true to myself if I did not gently share a concern that seems all too common in today’s world.
Over the past few years, our politics have become increasingly polarizing, and at times quite harsh. We seem to have lost the art of disagreeing respectfully. It saddens me and many others who grew up valuing respect for all people – when families and friends stop speaking, or when the lines between right and wrong feel blurred.
Sadly, a difficult situation recently arose in our town. It was a serious and very personal matter. In situations like this, taking responsibility and holding oneself accountable is important. Unfortunately, that did not happen. Instead, at a public meeting someone chose to bring up a lengthy list of past issues stretching back many years. These actions felt unkind and out of place in our close-knit community. Using painful moments from the past to score points has no place here. If this is how we choose to handle disagreements, it goes against everything our town stands for.
We should always treat one another with kindness and respect. Challenging decisions will sometimes need to be made, but they should never be delivered with malice or carelessness.
As we approach our 250th anniversary, I ask that we pause to appreciate how precious our freedoms are – the freedoms so many men and women have fought to protect. We are truly fortunate to live in a town that continues to grow while still honoring its deep roots. A place where neighbors become friends, and friends become family.
When I think of Orange, I think of all that is good. I have often said that as we look toward our future, we must remember our past. As we embrace these new beginnings, I ask that we always choose kindness – even when we disagree. Healthy debate has its place, but there is no room for ugliness here. Let us remember that.
Jude Toohey is the vice chair of the Orange Republican Town Committee.