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There is no progress in war
Published 10:09pm Monday, August 1, 2011What is desired more than anything is for the residents of our community to do right by way of showing ourselves gracious to each other and desist, somehow, from activities that may hinder true peace and growth. I would love to see the motels, the restaurants, the grocery stores, the service stations, the barber shops, the dry cleaners, the mall and etc. being impacted directly by our residents instead of helping our neighboring cities who have done the right things that breed growth.
We must not get tired in encouraging each other meaningfully instead of engaging in a series of unconstructive wars. Constructive criticism is needed for shaping up; we cannot avoid that since humans are prone to making mistakes.
Unwarranted discouragement and criticism actually deter people from bringing out their best. People become committed beyond expectation once they perceive a high level of appreciation. In every leadership position that we find ourselves, we must show examples that are worthy of emulation.
As a Selma City School Board member, I realize that we have to disagree at times, but when disagreement becomes the purpose for our meeting; when minds are made up even before hearing an issue; our ultimate goal becomes colossally affected.
Similarly, when politics, manipulations, indecent maneuvering take center stage, the board ultimately becomes an enemy to the people that they are assigned to help.
Some leaders or entities take appreciation and encouragement for all for granted and many times pay for it. It is overly beneficial to look beyond what makes people different if you want a cohesive and productive team. When all concerned realize that they are an essential part of the team, it leads to innovation, creativity, and the overall growth of the group or community.Pertinent, also, is the fact that encouragement reduces interpersonal conflicts as members feel less threatened. Consequently, productivity increases, schools and community improve as less time and energy are spent on rivalries and settling unnecessary disputes based on power struggles.
I’m glad that days of brouhaha in work sessions are almost gone. Still, we have to do better immediately. It bothers me sometimes when I’m told, “You have to understand that this is Selma’s politics.”
After all, I know a lot of nice people here; I see lots of love here; and I see lots of hopeful people here .The truth remains when nice, love, and hope unite for a common goal, progress emerges and reward exits.
