Dare we say it? The warmth of spring has arrived — albeit more than three weeks early. The sun is shining and flowers are beginning to bloom. But there is no discernible thaw in the fury of citizens impatient and frustrated with the direction of both our federal and state governments. Eastsiders who attended the pair of town hall meetings hosted by three of our elected officials last weekend witnessed firsthand some righteous anger. We applaud those who participate in government — in particular those who made it a point to go to such a meeting on a sunny Saturday. However, it seems that many of these gatherings have begun to mimic the widely broadcast scenes of hostility regarding political issues. Judged by the behavior of political groups both here and nationwide, it seems to be fashionable to be angry and rude. Granted, there is a lot to be upset and worried about, but is this necessary?

What remains to be seen is if such behavior is constructive in the quest for solutions to the problems that affect us all — the economy, health care, taxes or funding for education. What is certain is that the solutions to these problems are neither straightforward nor are they without their own impacts. They take time. The economy is a living, breathing and, yes, highly flawed organism. Any change to one system has an effect on another.

As for our state representatives, they pretty much get it. They hear it. They see it. But they are members of another complex organism — the state Legislature. And as such, they must balance the divergent views and needs of constituents statewide. They must abide by the law. Finally, they must deal with the people and views within Olympia — whose approach and goals are often as challenging as the citizens they represent.

Let’s remain active and involved, but positive and open. Let us show our children how it should be done.