Less complaining, more connection

Terry Ward, Publisher

We live in a time when it’s easier than ever to share an opinion, voice frustration, or criticize someone or something. Social media, online forums, and even community meetings have become outlets for venting—sometimes constructively, often not.

But I’ve been thinking lately about the toll that constant complaining can take—not just on our communities, but on ourselves. Complaining without action or empathy can become a habit. It can fray relationships, breed cynicism, and create distance where we most need connection.

That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t hold each other accountable, raise concerns, or push for better. That’s essential in a healthy democracy. But there’s a difference between constructive criticism and chronic negativity. One opens the door to collaboration. The other closes it.

What would happen if we redirected some of that energy toward connecting with our neighbors? If instead of leading with what’s wrong, we started with curiosity or compassion? If we paused before we posted or spoke and asked: Will this build up or tear down?

I’ve watched communities rally after wildfires, come together to support a struggling business, or wrap around a family in crisis. In those moments, there’s little complaining. There’s action. There’s unity. There’s heart.

We don’t have to wait for a crisis to act like a community.

At our newspapers, we’re committed to being a platform for civil discourse, solutions-focused journalism, and stories that remind us of our shared humanity. We’ll still report on hard truths, ask tough questions, and shine a light where it’s needed—but we also believe in the power of connection.

Maybe the first step is listening more. Complaining less. And remembering we’re all in this together.

Let’s make room for that.

Connection doesn’t require grand gestures. Sometimes it’s as simple as a conversation at the grocery store, a kind word to a stranger, or showing up to a local event—not to criticize, but to contribute. These small acts, repeated over time, build trust. And trust is the foundation of any strong community.

We can choose how we show up—in person, online, in our neighborhoods. Do we bring fuel for the fire, or water for the roots? That choice, made daily, shapes the kind of community we live in.

There’s plenty in the world to fix. But there’s also plenty worth celebrating. Let’s not lose sight of the good happening all around us—neighbors mentoring youth, volunteers cleaning up parks, businesses quietly donating to those in need. These stories matter too, and they deserve our attention.

So the next time we feel the urge to complain, maybe we can pause. Take a breath. And ask: What can I do to connect, to contribute, to care?

That’s the kind of energy that makes a place stronger. That’s the kind of community I want to live in.

And I believe we can build it—together.