Putting the “Civil” Back into Civilization: Could Mom’s Rules Save the World?

Now that we’ve had the opportunity to exercise our “civic duty” and vote, can we start trying to make our civics more civil?

How have we come so far into a universe where rude behavior, hurtful language, and hateful attitudes are acceptable – not just among the young, crazy, fringe element – but even mainstream, “conservative” grandmothers and businessmen? It’s not confined to any political party, age group, geographic area, or gender – ugliness is now equal opportunity. Is anyone as embarrassed for our society as I am?

I think we would behavior differently if we still lived under the threat of mom washing our mouths out with soap for bad words, or being grounded for misbehavior and having our toys taken away (out with the iphones, Blackberrys and computers). Just maybe, we would think twice before taking the low road if we thought mom was watching. I propose we start heeding mom’s instruction even now, to bring some civility back into our civilization.

Let’s start with this one: “Play nice”

Play is our first foray into collaboration. It was creative and fun, and there was always room for others to join in. Our only caveat was to be kind to our playmates: share, don’t be grabby, don’t hit, and don’t make them cry. Temper tantrums were not allowed. The consequence for not playing nice was a “Time out;” separation from everyone else where you couldn’t be seen or heard…ignored. Funny how that worked so well back then, yet we do just the opposite today. The more naughty we are, the more media coverage, air time, press attention, or internet hits we get.

I vote for a world-wide TIME OUT for bad behavior where we stop rewarding incivility. Don’t watch it, don’t buy it, don’t “click” and pass it on to your network.

Let’s start with just playing nice and ignoring those who don’t – and see how much better the play ground becomes.

Check out more of “Mom’s Rules” at Breland Facilitation