As a lifelong independent, I have tried to never make generalities about Republicans or Democrats. As in any group, large or small, political or otherwise, different opinions arise. Some based on facts, some on faith and some, even, on habit. So, I try not to draw conclusions or make decisions from isolated instances.

I did find myself somewhat taken aback, however, when I passed a sign located prominently in front of the new Republican headquarters on upper Lisbon Street. It read, "Help us defeat Obama." Not the Democrats, not finances or world leadership; not anything related to politics ... just defeat Obama.

First of all, in regard to his high office and common dignity, he is President Obama. And, secondly, and most important in my mind, is that the sign is only a very thinly veiled racist metaphor. They don't want to change presidents; they want to get the black man out of the White House.

Will we ever learn?

Dick Rosenberg, Sabattus