Thank you to Rex Rhoades for being able to put my feelings into words and for doing it so eloquently (Nov. 7).

Since the election, I have been feeling a little sad and confused. Rhoades’ words made me feel better. I haven’t taken the time just yet to analyze why, but off the top of my head, I guess he made me feel validated and hopeful.

Validated because it seemed that if you were opposed to the war, you were “unpatriotic.” If you were opposed to the Bush administration, you were “immoral.” I know that neither of these labels apply to me. I’m hopeful because Rhoades has shown that people of influence will continue to speak out. Again, thank you.

Ruth A. Childs, Auburn