Amid the election year’s heightened tensions, a recent memo from a retirement community’s director advocated for civility among residents, to counteract derogatory behavior and promote kindness. This mirrors the call for more respectful political discourse amidst alarming incidents of violence linked to political rallies, underscoring the need for civil discussions and commitment to gun control and candidate accountability.
In light of the current election year, a reminder of civility in discourse seems most timely. Historically, Finley Peter Dunne’s fictional character, Mr. Dooley, succinctly critiqued the naiveté surrounding electoral expectations, stating, “A man that’d expict to thrain lobsters to fly in a year is called a loonytic, but a man that thinks men can be tur-rned into angels by an iliction is called a rayformer and remains at large.” This perspective serves as a relevant observation during a climate often defined by vitriol rather than constructive dialogue. This sentiment was echoed in a recent communication from the executive director of a retirement community, which urged residents to maintain a respectful demeanor amid electoral fervor. The memo stipulated, “In the coming months, it will be essential for us to demonstrate respectful behavior to each other, even when we disagree. Derogatory, discriminatory, or harassing behaviors will simply not be tolerated. That is not who we are. We strive to be kind, caring, inclusive, and respectful.” Such communication may have arisen from an anticipated escalation in political tensions, a concern substantiated by the less-than-civil environment that has characterized recent political debates, wherein candidates often resort to name-calling instead of engaging in substantive discussions about pressing issues. A notable incident further highlighting the alarming intersection of politics and violence occurred at a rally held by former President Donald Trump, where a tragic shooting led to casualties and a critical self-assessment by the Secret Service regarding its security protocols. This underscores the need for heightened security measures, proposed gun control reforms, and a resolute commitment from political candidates to foster a more civil discourse. Even within a retirement community, where elder residents are supposed to navigate their golden years, the director deemed it necessary to emphasize the importance of avoiding derogatory expressions amidst the politically charged atmosphere. While avoiding political discussions entirely may be a simplistic answer, it may indeed prove effective in mitigating conflict. Furthermore, individuals prone to heated arguments can gain insight from a further reflection by Mr. Dooley: “A fanatic is a man that does what he thinks the Lord would do if He knew the facts of the case.” This insight may provide a more temperate framework for understanding differing viewpoints.
The commentary explores the current climate surrounding political discourse, particularly during an election year. It references historical perspectives on the electoral process while addressing contemporary issues such as the civility among citizens and the alarming rise of violence linked to political events. The piece highlights the necessity for civil behavior among individuals, especially in communities that cater to a more vulnerable demographic, such as the elderly, while reflecting on broader societal implications of political unrest.
In summary, as the electoral season unfolds, it is imperative for individuals from all walks of life to engage in respectful dialogue, embracing civility over animosity. The exhortation from the retirement community’s executive director reveals a broader truth: the need for kindness and inclusiveness must persist amidst political divisions. By adopting a stance of respect and understanding, all parties can contribute to a more genteel political landscape, mitigating the unrest that too often accompanies elections. Ultimately, fostering a culture of thoughtful conversation may not only improve interpersonal relationships but also enrich the democratic process as a whole.
Original Source: catholicreview.org
