With the wrath of mother nature and the dark side of human nature in too much evidence, it’s been a difficult two months. It is my profound hope that, as President George Herbert Walker Bush said, we appeal to our “kinder, gentler” selves as we try to listen and respect one another to improve our country and ourselves.

We hear so much about the polarization of America. Our differences are indisputable and we are lucky to live in a country where we are able to express them. However, we all share the desire to create a safe, happy environment for our families, raise children who are decent and compassionate, and to find and give joy.

I know it’s Pollyanna-ish to say, but I hope as citizens of this great country, we will try to appeal to the best in all of us and conduct ourselves with kindness, empathy and respect for others in 2013. Hate and vitriole are toxic. Let’s do an annual virtual cleanse, and start the new year with a clean slate and a vow to be better.

Happy New Year!