Many members of my family have served in the United States Navy at various times. My uncles, cousins, my brother and my nephew have sailed the seas for our nation. I can easily imagine how often, during wars and turbulent seas, they heard the call: “ALL HANDS ON DECK!”
In other words, it's an emergency NOW!
Today, America is like a ship on which we are all passengers. Right now, we need people who can calm the waters rather than stir them. I'm not sure when we decided that being loud equates to being strong, or that being cruel signifies power. Somewhere along the way, we seem to have forgotten something crucial: A nation cannot heal itself while everyone is shouting.
America's political climate needs calmer voices
Leadership holds a powerful microphone, and we all live downstream from the words
spoken into it. What we say and how we say it truly matters. This isn't about forcing Americans to agree with one another. It's about recognizing that the words of those in power influence everyone, from teenagers on social media to children on the playground.
How many of you have watched the contentious battles during congressional hearings? Often, the language is so harsh and insulting that I find myself turning to Disney to watch a pleasant Mickey Mouse cartoon instead. It seems some people believe that by being more derogatory, louder and more aggressive, they can claim victory. So, which resembles a cartoon more – Mickey and Minnie or Congress and the combatants?
Great leaders help unite a divided nation
I have always believed that becoming president of the United States is a unique responsibility. You don't simply lead those who elected you; you inherit responsibility for everyone, including the states where a majority supported you and those that did not, as well as those who agree with you and those who disagree.
That is a tremendous responsibility.
I often wonder when it became acceptable for a president or any government leader to speak about Americans, cities or states with disdain simply because they hold different political views.
There is room in this country for conservatives, liberals and independents. Thank goodness we have both liberals and conservatives to challenge one another and keep our country from veering too far in either direction.
Where would we be without the great Republican Abraham Lincoln? Where would the world be without Democratic President Franklin Delano Roosevelt?
President Lincoln's words helped a nation torn apart by a brutal war begin the long, difficult work of healing. He famously said, “With malice toward none, with charity for all.”
President Roosevelt also worked to restore public confidence and trust through his use of radio and “Fireside Chats,” which helped soothe a fearful nation.
Were they perfect leaders? No. But their efforts contributed to making our nation one that was respected and admired around the world.
Respectful disagreement strengthens democracy
Yelling, belittling and degrading others are counterproductive for America. We can disagree, but there's no reason to turn our differences into a cartoonish spectacle. Each time we do, we diminish our value as a society. We can engage in passionate debate and stand firm in our political beliefs, but we must never allow our disagreements to fracture the soul of America.
While we cannot control every aspect of our lives, we can control our words, our reactions and the kindness we extend to others. Our morality isn't dictated by laws; it is shaped by our character.
A lesson on the lasting impact of words
We know how much a child's words and behavior can affect those around them. I learned that lesson the hard way when I was seven.
When I was a young girl, my mouth often got me into trouble more than anything else. Whenever I disagreed with my parents, my sassy comments became rebellious. I certainly faced the consequences for my words! Despite that, I just couldn't seem to hold back my remarks.
One day, my mom tried to make me go to bed early because I had misbehaved. As she attempted to tuck me in, I began to wail and kick my legs. In the struggle to calm me down, I accidentally kicked her in the chest. When I saw the look of pain on her face, I realized that my words and actions could hurt someone I loved.
I began to change right away, but I will always remember her face. And to this day, I still feel regret. At the age of seven, I quickly realized how much harm we can cause when we express our anger carelessly.
All hands on deck to restore civility
We need all hands on deck to stop the tide of disrespectful and bitter words. Every one of us has a part to play in calming the waters so our American ship can sail forward with dignity.
"But now you must get rid of all such things: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive language from your mouth." (Colossians 3:8)
Lynn Walker Gendusa is a writer in Georgia and the author of the book "Southern Comfort." She is originally from Monterey, Tennessee.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: All hands on deck for a more civil America | Opinion
