Regular letter to the editor writer Earle Stahler passed away on Dec. 14, 2021. His family submitted his final letter.

Our lives … back to normal? May not be for years.

They stormed our Capitol like a herd of wild cattle. They were angry and misguided, their minds were not functioning normally. Anyone who destroys property by fault because they have no shame, and their act of violence and bloodshed is pure hate, ought to be treated like insane criminals.

So went the horrendous rioting in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021. Five people died. What an unfortunate beginning to start the new year with our Capitol being destroyed by a bunch of wrongdoers who have no respect for their country or themselves. Is 2021 starting out with enough political problems to even awaken our forefathers to return to life (if only they could).

The 2020 presidential election is history. President Trump has returned to his familiar business offices since Joe Biden has been sworn in as our new commander in chief. We can only hope and pray he will lead our devastated nation to new heights and a rightful democracy. Trump achieved many new challenges and worthwhile improvements, but was NEVER given the merits he deserved. Especially by those hateful Democrats, including Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, who hates him, but that’s dirty politics!

What President Biden does to offer Americans a desirable leadership remains to be seen. We should reserve our comments for Biden and give him an opportunity to do his job. He has his work waiting in the Oval Office and his priority should be COVID-19. If our lives return to normal with the effective vaccine, then every living human on God’s planet better give his and her grateful thanks to the discovery of the vaccine.

To be able to hold and hug your grandchild without fear on contacting the virus. To stuff your belly with a hearty meal in a restaurant. To actually attend a football game in person. To worship at church with loved ones sitting next to you are only a handful of daily activities we’ve been denied.

The vaccine came too late for those who were not lucky to have an opportunity to be vaccinated against the mysterious killer. Perhaps if thousands more could have been inoculated, it might have saved innumerable lives. Sadly the discovery came too late for those whose lives have gone beyond the twilight zone. The coronavirus has shown the world how imperfect life can run its course. Civilization has never lived through an epidemic so deadly. Pray to God we NEVER will again. We should always remember those unfortunate souls who went to an early grave. Thousands gave their lives so we might survive.

And last but not least, we Trump lovers can relax now that his impeachment trial is ended. The Democrats are elated to have Trump out of their daily problems. Now who are they going to harass since Donald Trump is gone? Please stay safe, everyone!

God bless civilization.

Earle Stahler

Tamaqua