Choose Civility
[səˈvilədē]
I'm not sure if I'm disappointed, disillusioned, discouraged, appalled, ashamed, or all of these when I look at what has become of our culture. I try to understand when and why society began to tolerate incivility and bad behavior as the norm. Either people are accepting of it or they have become numb to it; whatever the reason, it's not behavior children, or anyone else, should be exposed to. How can we expect our children to behave in a civil manner if adults are acting like bullies.
There was a time that our culture would not tolerate this type of behavior; we expected more from our leaders, and adults in general. We were able to look up to those who led our cities, towns and the country because they treated each other civilly even when they didn't agree. We can't afford to sit back and accept an environment where there is name calling, shaming and bullying if we want to leave our children and grandchildren with a better world.
Treat others as you would want to be treated. This statement is as valid today as it was when my parents said it to me. Over the years it has served me well, and has always been a reminder to be kind. We need to instill this in future generations as a rule to live by. It is hard to fathom that we will allow this culture to continue. If we do then there will eventually be a total breakdown of society. A world where everyone lashes out at one another; where there is no sense of community, no empathy for our neighbors, no kindness. A very dark vision of what could be.
What are we willing to put up with? Will we sit back and accept this as the norm, or finally say enough and demand better? Our children deserve better; we deserve better.
I am still optimistic that as a society we will wake up and not allow this to continue. Most humans have a good heart and in the end will choose civility. Truthfully, we have no other choice.
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