Respect is needed in the political realm

We must respect each person, even as we tell truth as we see it. This means political candidates, their parties, representatives of special interests, soldiers, “defense” contractors, bankers, business owners, immigrants, laborers, and every voter and citizen.

Even if certain candidates demonize others, I should not follow their lead. In demonizing anyone I’m giving them permission to do the same to me. Thus we’d both lose respect.

Another reason for respect, related particularly to climate protection: Many of us heat our houses from the power grid, drive cars, and have reasons to travel by air. So most of us, regardless of our politics, are still offending nature. Therefore it makes no sense to divide into power blocs (some call them “tribes”) and blame the other bloc for the troubles we’ve made together.

In this Easter season, our faith communities have quite likely reminded us of the big picture.

I think that a big part of that picture should be to speak respectfully when we have a truth to tell.

This story was originally published March 29, 2016 at 3:01 PM with the headline "Respect is needed in the political realm."