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. Read More