We live in the UNITED States of America. But that word, “united,” seems to be struggling lately in our country. Perhaps we can say there is a unity recession more than an economic recession. This is a great nation, but we have some room for improvement. We could do more to share the light of unity. There has been too much bickering about so many things.
We bickered recently about whether we should wear masks or not. Then there was more bickering about COVID immunizations. But even before the pandemic, we were bickering about abortion, gay marriage, owning and carrying guns, immigration, and so on.
If we’re all involved in the bickering, then we all are the ones who need to correct the problem. It’s not one side or the other that must change; it’s not that one special party that needs to get into office–it’s all of us who must learn some better attitudes and behaviors to enhance unity.
I believe this may be a part that is missing. Too many people believe it’s someone else who has the problem, when in fact, the majority of us may maintain attitudes and behave in ways that destroy unity. “If only they would/wouldn’t __” then we could get along. But in any culture or community with large groups of people, there will be differences; there will be different views and opinions, different ways of looking at each issue, etc.
We need to remember that each of us, whether liberal or conservative, is an intelligent person who wants the best things for our nation and its people. But too often, we are focused on what it is that we want and believe it’s best for everyone. And in some cases that may be true–our idea may truly be the best for us all. But in democratic republic (as opposed to a dictatorship) we need people to come to agreement on what is best.
Agreement isn’t always easy, of course. At those inevitable times when we get frustrated that others are not seeing what we see, it probably calls for a new approach, rather than anger and hostility. And even when we might get others to finally grasp a glimpse of our vision, that understanding may quickly fade, so it’s important to capture the vision in clear and tangible ways so it can be reviewed again and again.
I believe there are two particular areas where we really need to change our ways as a society. First is that we need to consider others, whether they disagree with us or not, to be as important as ourselves. Certainly, that’s how God sees them. We can build unity with others only when we can accept them, despite their differences, and care about their well-being. We need to give people the benefit of the doubt, rather than attacking for every little misstep. (Forgiveness brings more light than condemnation.) We need to be willing to take the time to help someone understand, rather than writing them off as “stupid people” or some other derogatory label. “Love thy neighbor.”
The other important attitude and practice that we need to develop is to set truth above our agendas. Unity will never flourish amidst deceptions and lies. Truth involves honor and integrity, as well. If we attempt to hide a fact in order to enhance our cause or twist words to elevate the value of what we’re promoting, we are moving away from honor, integrity, and truth. It’s also important to own up to our own mistakes and be accountable to others. Just seek the truth and speak the truth.
Is unity just a nicety? Is it just a feel-good activity with no practical value? Behavioral research has found that when people are treated well, they are more productive. Surely, unity between people leads to better treatment, better attitudes, and therefore more productivity. I am convinced that an increase in unity throughout our nation will lead to increased prosperity. I believe it would also reduce some mental health challenges and other things that drag down America’s progress.
It’s time for the inhabitants of America to take a look at our own attitudes and actions and work toward a greater unity.