Building a Better World for Our Children

To everything we say, a child is listening. At everything we do, a child is watching. And from every example we set, a child is learning. And so it is that the civility- or lack thereof- we show to one another sets the stage for our future generations. All of us play a role in society's evolution. Every deed, each instance and all of our words shape and mold our world- whether for good or bad. We often hear people criticize today's youth for their lack of civility. Vulgarity, violence and wanton disregard for our values and institutions appear to be taking hold of our most precious asset- our children. But, to hold our children accountable- as if it is they whose responsibility it is to set the example- is a serious misnomer. As children, we are born into a world in which we've played no role. We know no limits and can speak no words of wisdom. We rely, instead, upon the values which our family, our ancestors and fellow citizens have established for our welcome into this thing called life.
Our love and care for children is rooted in our humanity; the concern and care which emanates from our innate inner sense that children are the embodiment of pure, innocent and unconditional love. And though we each recognize these highest of ideals, we fail to uphold such ideals. We fail when we say, do or act in any way that allows children to see in us the very things we don't want to see in anyone. We are each adept at recognizing and acknowledging the very things we would wish to see in others. Happiness, kindness, generosity, patience and love are what each of us would desire to see in all people. But we fall short every day when we fail to embody the very things we would want to see in others. A better society whose foundation is built upon love is the responsibility of each of us. Instead, we love to blame other people, other things and remove ourselves from any personal responsibility for things wrong in society. Why do some enjoy seeing others hurt? Why do so many relish gossip and wallow in the vile filth of rumor? Why do some attend religious services faithfully only to resume hurting others for another week?
As I peruse online forums, drive on the roads, watch the television or listen to some of today's music, it is evident that the things which society allows and accepts are the very things which have caused our youth to turn a distrusting and devalued ear to our hypocritical cries for better behavior. What kind of example are we setting? How can we expect children to adopt or revere good values, respect our leaders or our institutions when we allow our own behavior and lack of civility to be played out before them? When was the last time we demonstrated civility among ourselves, among our leaders or within our culture to the degree that children know of no other? I've written before of the difference between our public and private selves. A free society does not mean we are free to demonstrate the lowest of behaviors publicly- at least not in a moral sense. Instead, we must keep our worst thoughts and behaviors to ourselves and be the embodiment of the better world we each seek; holding ourselves individually responsible for everything we say and do. For if we dare to point the accusatory finger at another, may we only do so while standing upon water.