Although I agree with much of what Karen Gardner writes in her recent column about the significant dangers facing our country and our democracy at this important point in our history [“Vote like democracy depends on it,” Gazette, Oct. 9], I want to add a more hopeful perspective based on my close to 100 years of living.

I believe in the character of the American people and their commitment to a free, fair, and democratic society, even though the threats to this have mounted recently. The American dream of freedom and equality, even though admittedly imperfectly achieved, is embedded in our national DNA and I don’t believe that we can be manipulated and tricked to abandon our legacy and hopes.

As someone born in 1925, I have seen a lot — the great Depression, World War II in which I served as a combat soldier, the red scare in the McCarthy era, and much more. As a citizen of this great country, I believe in Americans’ determination to continue our progress toward a better society. I hope that you will join me in voting next month for candidates who are working for a better and more positive future.

Sidney Moss

Northampton