I try not to get into politics in this blog or issues where emotions may tend to elevate to levels where this forum then becomes a place for people to espouse their own biases and prejudices, but I am going to go out on a limb here.Recent events in Ferguson, MO and in NYC where two African American men died, where two policemen were shot; where protests are a daily occurrence and where both sides chant slogans such as: "I cant breathe" to "What do we want? Dead cops!" clearly depict the negative polarized nature of certain aspects of our society.
So here's what I am suggesting you do in your community. Become a part of the dialogue.
Not by taking any one side, (because there is always validity in both sides) but by being a venue to raise money for a community project that benefits everyone.
Whether it be a new recreation facility, senior center or some other worthwhile cause, be the one who helps spearhead the project and make it known that your motivation is to bring the community together to achieve a common goal.
It is the goal that is important. It is the goal that you must feel passionate about so you can communicate that to the Mayor, City Councilman, Police chief, Village Elders or whomever is in a position of power to get your project off the ground.
Why would you listen to this advice without thinking that "I have enough to worry about, why get involved in this stuff?"
First, its always good advice to be involved in your community and become part of its fabric. Fact: people like doing business with people who give back to the community.
Second, caring is marketing. When you get involved with a contemporary issue that reaches every part of society, you tell your customers that you are modern, up to date, involved and also very much concerned about them as people and not just concerned about the pursuit of profit at all costs.
Third, you cannot be wrong if you work for a mutual goal that benefits both sides or better yet has the potential to benefit everyone.
And finally you will get a lot of media coverage if you TRULY believe in what you are doing. A word of caution though, DO NOT DO THIS FOR PR REASONS. People are not stupid and will see through the "fakery."
Do this ONLY if you believe it; if you believe it will help the community and that you seek no economic reward for this effort. In fact, you MUST want nothing more than a successful and beneficial project that you believe will demonstrate how people can work together for the common good.
Do it because you want people to be less angry and more giving and you want that spirit of giving to start at your center
Merry Christmas to All
