Our Viewpoint: We can all get along

Last week we saw something we don't very often see in Washington, D.C. Congress came together to pass a continuing resolution and keep the government running.

Just as the shutdown was looming, the House and Senate demonstrated bipartisanship and a willingness to compromise as they passed legislation to fund the federal government through March.

Why was this significant? It was a good compromise because no one got everything they wanted. The legislation is not perfect. I would wager that just about everyone saw something get stripped from the bill that really irritates them. After the holidays, legislators will be back to work on other long-range plans. People will be shouting on social media what's wrong wtih Democrats and Republicans and everyone in between. But for a moment, we saw all sides come together for the good of the country.

This time of year is stressful enough, and people struggle through the holidays more than we realize. Why would we want to add to that with essential employees working without a paycheck and non-essential employees not working at all? If we have the means and ability to help someone, just as Congress helped the American public and all those federal workers, then do it.

At Christmas, people need extra prayers. Local organizations need a little extra help. A neighbor may just need you to check on them. We all have ways we can help others. We have to — as a county, as a country, as humans — do what is best for those around us. It may not be the most popular action. It may not be exactly what we want. But we all have to make sacrifices and compromises.

We have the ability to make the holidays a less stressful time and the ability to bring cheer and goodness to others. If you think one person can't make a difference, try calling one Senator or one Representative and talking to them about their one vote.

Merry Christmas. I hope you all get along.

— Annie Wooden