Respect

Barack Obama said a lot of interesting things in his speech on health care reform last night, but the most remembered statement to come from the televised event was just two words--and it did not come from the president.

South Carolina Rep. Joe Wilson called out, “You lie!” in response to Obama’s comments on illegal immigrants and his health plan—a break from decorum that shocked members of the Senate and House, pundits and the viewing public. Love him or hate him, agree or disagree, they all say, Obama is our president and should be treated with respect—especially when speaking before Congress and a live, televised audience.

I agree wholeheartedly with that sentiment, but I would like to take it further—he should be treated with respect simply because he is a person just like you and me, and no one deserves, or appreciates, being attacked with words.

I write this about just hours after I posted to Harnessphere a reminder that posts to that forum must be made with respect. That does not mean that everyone should agree or pander to each other, but if a point is to be argued, let’s simply do it with civility for our fellow men and women. Name calling and derogatory comments never advanced an argument well.

Our Harnessphere participants have been terrific, for the most part, about speaking to each other without hostility or confrontation, but it has taken a lot of work to get the message board to that condition. I appreciate and respect greatly those who participate, and the terrific monitors we have who work to keep the boards available to all.

I know--perhaps better than some--that not all messaging is like this. The anonymity offered by the Internet seems to remove, for some, the verbal filter that says, “This is really not an appropriate thing to say to or about another person.” But civil dialogue is always more productive, especially when it comes to topics we about which we all care so passionately. I value the opinion of those who impassioned about harness racing, and being able to hear comments and suggestions openly. Let’s keep talking—and let’s be kind!