Face the fact: Thousand Oaks has lost its innocence.

It has succumbed to the ideology of today: the lust for power, the focus on self and the quest to have more.

Materialism trumps education, divisiveness is the tool for gaining control and anything goes, just to win and have more. When this (happens), respect for others is lost. Until it changes, the quality of life and the sense of community will always be toxic and will worsen as materialism grows stronger.

A rosy view and a positive outlook are needed but frankly, the truth hurts.

Our economy, our reputation as a country and the way we relate with each other aren't good.

Have you wondered why things are the way they are? Are you part of the problem? Are you caught on a treadmill, trying to keep up with the American dream, which now focuses on materialism, ego and power?

Look at big business and what it's done to us. Our nation is starting to crumble. Greed, cheating, lying, selfishness, loss of respect for education, the elderly, the disadvantaged, our poor medical system and our lack of compassion are destroying us.

We used to be a proud nation. Now we lack professionalism, humane treatment of our veterans and others because our middle class and disadvantaged people don't have power and wealth.

Realize what's happening as you see the quality of life being squeezed out of our town, giving way to financial gain.

The sound of traffic and sirens, helicopters circling overhead, the lack of understanding and attention from our city leaders, the loss of rights as individuals and taxpayers, the ugliness in the divisive leadership in every aspect of the community.

This isn't Mayberry anymore. Marilee Ullmann Thousand Oaks