I was truly impressed by the Jan. 3  article, “Getting leg up on career at age 4.” It reported not only the very basic skills taught to these babes but also introduced them to college and careers. It was a way of instilling in their minds an idea of future aspirations.

That, I believe, has great value and the article made that point. But beyond the exposure to future aspirations, what truly impressed me was the purity of their minds that hadn’t yet been afflicted with prejudices by what they had to say.

The 4-year-old Mohamed “wants to be a police officer.” This could well be a noble calling for a boy of Somali descent to aspire serving our community. Something about our police department has impressed this young mind.

Skyler Mackenzie, who wants to be a firefighter with his friend Ahmed, said the two will be partners. He said “Ahmed’s going to drive. I’m going to ring the bell; he’s going to beep the horn. I will do the hose. Ahmed will turn on the water.”

The lesson for adults is the fact that  four year olds are friends and unspoiled with prejudices. They are the fabric of the future of our community. The children of refugees in partnership with the children of immigrants of long ago are seeing themselves as a team.

Let us all learn from what comes out of the mouths of babes. Their message is clear if we only pay attention.

Laurent F. Gilbert Sr., mayor

Lewiston