WJCL Editorial: Speak up or shut up

This week had some great examples about the power of the squeaky wheel… Scooter complaints in Statesboro.Ferry frustration at Dafuskie Island.Resistance against road noise along Truman Parkway.Either speak up or shut up.I could not be prouder of these people for fighting for their own community.It is uniquely American to make your voice heard and look for solutions through government.But our editorial team wondered what lessons are we learning?Well, here are a couple of things.You need to stay informed and engaged.It’s not enough to complain *after* the fact. It’s best to be there when the original decisions are being discussed.Second, what is best for the least of us is usually best for all of us.It is silly to fight to keep people out. It’s always best to include thoughtfulness for others, because they will inevitably resist the things that don’t include them.Finally, patience makes perfection.No one gets things perfect on the first try. So if you want something done right, give your politicians a chance but let them know you are here for the long haul.These women this week got our attention but we know there are thousands more examples in Savannah and the Lowcountry.Remember the choices are really simple: Speak up or shut up.I’m Ben Hart. Thank you for sharing this time.