Friendships enrich our lives as we age

Re: “New friends after 50 are more important than ever” (Dec. 29).

The Western world and America face an epidemic of loneliness. Individualism often leads to isolation as we age. Our friendships dwindle, leaving us disconnected and vulnerable.

Consider reaching out to those you may have overlooked in the past. Former acquaintances can become friends, and they may share similar experiences in navigating the complexities of aging.

When you find yourself in a new setting, approach it with an open heart. Don’t hesitate to express your desire for friendship.

It’s natural to fear losing friends, but we must remember Khalil Gibran’s wisdom: love and pain are two sides of the same coin.

As we navigate the aging journey, we must break down mental barriers. By actively pursuing connections, we can combat loneliness and aging with courage and resilience.

Let us remember that friendship is not just a remedy for loneliness; it enriches our lives and enhances our well-being.

— Kohli Singh, San Jose

Let’s finish the good work Carter left undone

Re: “Jimmy Carter, 39th president, Nobel Peace Prize recipient, dies at 100” (Dec. 30).

In 2006, I helped build houses with the Jimmy Carter Project for Habitat for Humanity. We built 75 homes for families in Vera Cruz, Mexico.

Hot and humid, it was hard work, but so rewarding. The former president and his wife worked and sweated along with the rest of us. One morning after breakfast, I tried to interview President Carter. Cordially, he reminded me we were there to build houses and it was time to work. No interview.

He lived a long, meaningful life — underappreciated as president, exemplary as a former chief executive. Time for us all to get on with his unfinished work.

— William Briggs, Morgan Hill

U.S. has experienced the death of honor

Re: “Trump loses his appeal of Carroll’s $5 million award in sex abuse case” (Dec. 31).

Reading that Donald Trump lost his bid to have a sexual abuse civil lawsuit award against him overturned, I had the thought that America has lost its honor. When I was in the Marines ecades ago, honor was as important a skill as accuracy with a rifle. Even the country tried to be honorable in its dealings; though not always successful, at least it tried.

But no more. Being great again apparently means having no honor and no morality. We seem to celebrate liars, cheats, misogynists, bullies, racists and insurrectionists. We scoff at the law.

Honor has died and the “people” have willingly killed it. For what, a few more dollars? How do we raise our kids to be good neighbors and good citizens in a country like this? Wake up America; you’re killing the best part of yourself.

— Bob Cole, San Jose