Dear Editor:

I was saddened after reading the article about the middle school child that was assaulted by a high school child. I wonder if Restorative Justice is being considered as one of the paths forward towards harmony in the schools? Restorative Justice brings those harmed and those causing the harm into a safe voluntary dialogue and focuses on ways the offender can repair the damage done, thus helping both victim and offender return to their community with restored peace.

Today's tumultuous world demands we come together in unity. The divisions in our country have been said to be the biggest threat towards the collapse of our society. More borders and divisions separating us does not meet the challenge. Teaching nonviolent communication is another tool. a way of interacting that’s rooted in empathy and compassion to working to foster authentic connections between people regardless of their differences. We can learn to trust one another and work together for the common good.

Let us begin on recognizing our oneness with one another and our total dependence upon this one and only blue spinning planet. The need is so great now.

Georjean Machulis

Boothbay Harbor