I’ve said this before but writing commentary on The Lakota Code of Ethics is very often a real challenge! Today’s attempt verifies this fact.
The atmosphere in our country finds us struggling with the notion of freedom of speech and expression. The freedom of speech and expression is one of the foundational tenets of our Constitution. Very few countries on this planet afford it’s citizens such breadth and depth of personal expression.
I fear at times that we have lost sight of the gravity of this particular freedom. With the instantaneous nature of communications today, we have immediate access to any and all information. We can communicate with anyone on any part of this world almost immediately. That is incredible! As cool as this might be, I believe that we have forgotten how to facilitate this freedom.
We spew hatred, bigotry and bias. We work to quiet messages with which we disagree. We listen only enough to catch the direction of a message in order to shut it down. We have also forgotten (or choose to ignore) how to share our voices in dignified and respectful ways.
Differing viewpoints are part and parcel of the human experience. Divergent viewpoints are inherent in human nature. The guarantee of free speech stands on a slippery slope. There are ways to disagree with dignity and respect. There are ways to state our views without inciting violence. There are ways to talk without coming to blows.
The Lakota Code of Ethics puts it this way: “Honor other people’s thoughts, wishes and words. Never interrupt another or mock or rudely mimic them. Allow each person the right to personal expression.”
Everyone from our political leaders, business leaders, religious leaders, educational leaders and military leaders on down has the ability to communicate in this manner.
Stop the blame-shifting. Cease with the excuses. Eliminate the sleight of hand. Start speaking and listening in the way of the Lakota! Like Nike says, “Just Do It!”
Peace!
Mark E. Hundley
