New Year's Resolutions

By Winn Maddrey, Executive VP, Topics Education

At the end of the year, with the holidays ever-present, self-reflection – if one can get the time – seems almost natural. As the new business and corresponding activities screech to a halt in the Thanksgiving to New Year’s black hole, those of us who rarely slow down, finally find the time to reflect on the year and adjust our outlook accordingly on how best to move forward.

It’s a wonder that self-reflection, being so important, depends upon the lack of other activity to take place. But in this month, with reflection top of mind, I gravitate toward thoughts about engagement and communities, why each relies on the other, and why we need to consider them in our resolutions for the New Year.

Recently I attended what was billed as a community discussion on campaign-related issues. During the forum, we explored aspects of the Presidential campaign that caused tensions and that demonstrated the need for an adequate framework to help citizens make sound voting decisions. I was energized by the interaction and not just because I am political junkie. Rather it was because I was in a room of diverse citizens who’d rolled up their sleeves and come to participate.

Unfortunately, self-reflection wasn’t emphasized, and a good opportunity for community engagement, growth, and change was missed.

However defined, a community needs a few things to really thrive. First, people must buy in to the idea of community, of the give and take that makes up being part of a collective group. Next, thriving communities house people who are engaged, who are aware and educated on the issues facing the group. Finally, people must participate in the discussion and decision-making. They should bring their cares vocally to the community center, put them on the table, and be willing to participate in the community’s dialogue. This is a role embraced by elected leaders historically, but it is one that seems nearly universally abdicated by those in power these days.

So as 2008 comes to a close, I look back on what I have accomplished as part of my community and what we as a country have accomplished and think, what a great start. Now part of me just wants to sit back and see what happens next, but the rest of me realizes that now is the time for all of us to step up and help build thriving communities, wherever we live.