I have been at a small meeting in connection with the re-design of Learning Disability Services in Argyll & Bute. It was salutory to listen to others and to realise how important it is to slow down, think carefully and share honestly. And that means sharing feelings, stories, fears, hopes and what is important in living as someone who is challenged in this frantic world of change and spin.
I learned how important humour can be and how we disregard others at our peril. It seems to me that some of these insights are what we need in our country today. Above all, it takes humility to stop shouting, wriggling, or making a point. And what we need is for our political parties to listen to the electorate and show integrity by finding a way to take us through these difficult times.
Trouble is – such knowledge comes with age and experience. I am concerned at the apparent lack of this in our would-be leaders.
I know – it used to be the older politicans became respected for age and experience. Now it seems that what matters is to look pretty in front of the camera and not fluff too many lines. Sobering times, but I am still in hopeful mood. (Maybe because the sun in shining.)
Also true beyond the borders of your country!
Thanks lc – it seems to me that ordinary people are trying to tell politicians to get real and think about their country rather than themselves.