Two leadership models in times of trouble
Recently, we have been through a contentious election that adds division to our country. Whether you are a Trump supporter or not, the election is over and the adolescent naysaying adds salt to the division already present creating anger, hostility and yes, in places a violence we would never have dreamed possible. I voted for Trump and am an independent; I am not ashamed to step out and say that but he was not my first, second or fifth choice.
Did I want to continue on the path we are on or make needed change? I had to assess the mounting needs of the country and not necessarily for any party's agenda or ideology and identify the common good. I do not condone some of his comments or ego-driven behaviors; however, I do see value in some solutions he proposes to what I hear from the grass-roots.
On the flip side, there is a strong comparison between the systems and structures that Trump's platform defined to the leadership model of Pope Francis who in many ways faces identical issues. He hears cries of injustice from the people and accusations by his peer bishops.
Both men walk a fine line between unity and diversity; each independently resolves the conundrum by adopting a posture of diversity within unity; we are each uniquely gifted.
No matter what each of us believes, we need to explore what solves the broadest number of common problems and find solutions that create tolerance and support for us all. This melting pot we call America will always have diverse needs and priorities but it is how we meet the common good that will bring us unity within the diversity we so cherish.
Janet W. Hauter
South Barrington