Do we live in an uncivil society?

The title of this post is a question that may force some sweeping generalizations.  We are told to be careful when making sweeping generalizations.  But I like sweeping, especially when the floor is dirty.  And yes, the floor (our society) has become mighty filthy.  Civility is a concept that exists in black and white.  Either civility exists or it doesn't.  Civil and uncivil cannot co-exist anymore than you can sleep through a riot.  I'm not condemning our society, but I am saying we need to watch what we say and do.  I just don't mean politically, either.  Remember, politicians represent us in position and character.  The way we even talk to one another is almost sub-human.

Think about it.  People yell at each other all the time.  You don't believe me?  Watch a group of kids interact.  They yell at the top of their lungs and they're mere inches from one another.  Kids always have and always will model our behavior.  We allow words like dumb, stupid, crazy, and other words not appropriate for this forum to fly out of our mouths to describe other people.  How many times have you seen someone curse another adult clean out and a kid had his/her eyes locked on them like a cartoon?  While I was watching the coverage of the tragedy in Tuscon a law enforcement official said, "Free speech is not without consequence."  Who knows what the real motivation was behind that horrible act?  But the statement is true nonetheless.

Everything we say and do has an affect on someone else.  That's why we produce events like the St. Louis Sportsmanship Summit.  Our kids have so much to gain from participating in sports.  If we stay in our roles and support each other, kids will get everything out of their activities that we want them to.  So, join us for the St. Louis Sportsmanship Summit on Saturday, January 22 at Maryville University.  The event will begin at 8:30 a.m. with a free autograph session from former Rams great, Aeneas Williams.  Break-out sessions will focus on coaching leadership, athlete safety, sports parenting, bullying and other pertinent topics.  This event is free, but registration is required  To register, please click on the following link for the St. Louis Sportsmanship Summit or call 314.345.5130.   Until next time...

Be a Good Sport!

-Sol