Nonprofit, Civic, and Church Leaders Can Help Us Heal

“If we could change ourselves, the trends in the world would also change. Just as a man changes his own nature, so does the attitude of the world towards him… We need not wait to see what others do.” – Mahatma Gandhi

Not long ago I posted the following message on Facebook:

Seek respect, not attention; lasts longer.

There is real human suffering in our country and around the world, but we all have to step up to help because this is the reality, we are all in this thing called life, together. No one is better than anyone. And, as the adage goes, “There, but by the grace of God, I go.”

Is it just me, or are you tired of the relentless stream of neurosis, disrespect, yelling, and yelling that divides us on almost each and every level? If an idea or statement is made, it sounds like someone is going to take care of the problem and as soon as you can snap your fingers, there’s debate, especially on social media. Often these “discussions” turn into name calling, trolling, and disrespect online. I’ve seen several closed conversations in non-profit and church social media groups, which is ridiculous when you think about it, because if people can’t have meaningful and productive debate and discussion in these areas, where can they discuss critical social issues? ?

This is my message: we are better than this.

I believe that nonprofit civic and religious leaders can play a role in elevating civil discourse.

Social networks have been great because, in practice, they have broken down borders. Connecting with people from all over the world is easy. For many organizations and groups, social media has significantly reduced marketing and advertising costs, increased awareness, and leveraged resources.

But I think as we’ve become more “connected,” there’s an incredible divide. The division has to stop.

Church, civic, and nonprofit leaders can help heal our communities.

Do you remember the golden rule?

The golden rule was simple and I think leaders should remember it every morning when they head to work and ask their teams to adhere to its principles.

The golden rule has a religious origin. It came from the words Jesus said in the “Sermon on the Mount.” The principles became religious teachings incorporated into the Bible.

Matthew 7:12: “So, in everything, do with others what you want them to do with you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”

Those words are so simple: treat others as you would like to be treated.

I think our society is in a precarious place. We are not listening. We are screaming and yelling next to each other. We ignore each other.

And this is the most important thing to me: many of us expect attention and the world to listen to us, and we are not giving others the same respect.

This has to stop.

I believe that nonprofit, civic, and church leaders are in a unique position. Often, due to their position in the communities, they are leaders.

If you’re like me and tired of the relentless divisiveness that’s going on, then make a commitment today to be the change you want to see. It doesn’t take much.

• Post the Golden Rule in your office so it’s the first thing people see when they walk into your office.
• Create an atmosphere of gratitude. Here’s the reality: If your team members and everyone you come in contact with throughout the day sense that you, as the community leader, are grateful for them, you’re giving them an amazing message. . Gratitude is an element of respect.
• Be sure to treat everyone on your team and in the community with respect and kindness, and expect every member of your team to do the same. Make this a non-negotiable in your organization, no matter the circumstances or difficult discussions.
• If you’re a community leader (or any kind of leader), listen up. I think one of the biggest problems in the world today is that everyone expects to be heard, but only a few listen. Hear. Learn. Understand.
• Walk the talk. As a community leader, many church, nonprofit, and civic leaders hold a special position in their communities. If you are one of these leaders, do what it says. Model the respect, generous praise, civility, and listening skills you would like to see in others. Lead by example.

Each of us, especially community leaders, can make sure that in our part of the world we begin to foster an environment of peace, respect, and positive civil dialogue and debate. Each of us has to do our part to make a better world, and I believe that civic, church, and nonprofit leaders can play a unique role in public discourse and dialogue.