I guess this falls under “I wish I had written that.” This morning while perusing the New York Times, I came across an op-ed written by David Brooks titled “Tree of Failure.” He lauds President Obama’s memorial speech and his call for a return to civility but points out the “Tree of Civility” has roots in recognition of our failures, sin, and weaknesses.
At the risk of cliche I will say that “It takes a village.” Everything we do well involves others in one way or another. Despite rampant individualism, the truth is, no one gets to heaven on their own. Salvation is not a “personal” accomplishment. We get there together or we don’t get there at all. As Grace would have it, the God who is calling us to Oneness has promised the success of the journey, but it won’t be one by one.
Similarly, a climate of civility will not return to this country by isolated efforts or by people, convinced of the truth of their views, working to win over the rest of us.It will come when we accept our sinfulness, our weakness and failures, and humbly join our efforts with the efforts of others. Together we can discern a path forward as we seek to find a way to provide healhcare to all. Together we can hammer out a budget that is just. Together we can find a way to reduce violence in our streets, or in front of a Tuscon grocery.
It takes humility. It takes openness to the thoughts and ideas of others. It takes recognition that none of us has a corner on the truth.
I encourage you to read Mr. Brooks column. And I pray for national resolve to engage in personal reflection and soul searching, a sort of examen to become aware of what we have to offer and what we have to learn.
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