Negativity
We have got to do a much better job in HS in suppressing the negativity. There seems to be a very small group of people who are opposed to virtually every new change and, as a result we have a hard time gaining traction in moving ahead on major initiatives. There is a cadre of folks who do take a leadership position in making good things happen for the welfare of the community but, as is so often the case, the “silent majority” reigns. We have got to find ways to empower this silent group to move to the front in making their voices heard as they are the people who are wishing things could move forward without constant fighting and contention. They seem to be unwilling to take a public stand for fear of some kind of retribution.
April 4th, 2008 at 8:07 am
Perhaps one could look into the issue of vulnerability.
Those who are slinging arrows, trying to virtually kill some of the folks who have worked hard for years, are perhaps operating from a personal position of safety, such as independent wealth, secure retirement income, or other such situation that renders them immune from the necessity of making an monthly income. From this instance, it would follow that those who must protect their livelihood will become silent, or absent.
Another possibility is that among the people who are slinging arrows there are those who believe they will personally gain from making someone else miserable. Whether publicity, another public office or simple personal glee, any gain will only perpetuate the pattern.
I think we need to somehow get a pattern going where everyone tries to consider things from the opposing point of view, just a bit, in order to see each other as all being sincerely humans trying to do what we think is good. Then maybe we could begin civilized discourse over how exactly we can devise situations to include good for everyone.
Another pipe dream?
April 12th, 2008 at 9:13 am
It seems like most of the negativity is closely associated with people not understanding an issue. Looks to me like people need to ask a few questions, and find out the facts instead of believing whatever they hear.
April 29th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
The book, “Tipping Point” has some wonderful thoughts on how the struggle for change occurs.
At our next meeting I’ll tell you what our tour guide in Shanghi said about how that community changed from 10,000 people to 2 million in about 20 years. It is very appropriate for Hot Springs.