To the editor:

Just for the holidays let’s consider which is more dangerous: falling off the fiscal cliff or falling off compassion’s cliff. Shall we look for our place in the larger world or are we so brainwashed that we don’t see the constant commercialization of our culture and our politics, while our holidays encourage a selfish style of greed, non-accountability and covertness that destroys families, discourages the middle class, abandons the disabled, bankrupts seniors, endangers the life of our children and creates a dangerous national poverty of spirit.

Of course, much is expected of those who are given much — let’s use it wisely.

Let’s admit there is a great and growing scarcity in our nation. Let’s admit there are smoking guns.

When twittering and texting isn’t enough, try eye contact, hugging, affection, curiosity, truth and an open empathic ear. In this season of giving, why not turn the dark into light by understanding how only our compassion toward each other and our spirit will keep this great nation safe, prosperous and secure.

MARY ANN PROCTOR

Bainbridge Island