Max De Pree Quotes and Questions

Quote

“We see a decline of civility, and, sadly, it’s often modeled by the very people from whom we have the least right to expect it.”

—Max De Pree, “The Heart and Soul of Leadership in a Changing Context”
 
Photo thanks to augapfel via CC

 
No matter how you say it, we all want to be treated with civility.

You do.

I do.

Photo thanks to soukup via CC

 
It takes both of us.

Because civility doesn’t necessarily come naturally. Civility is a responsibility that requires effort and vigilance, and at times it can be easy to forget, especially when we’re in a hurry, being absent-minded, or arguing for something about which we care deeply. It takes the ceaseless cooperation and participation of both you and me to build and maintain civil relationships.

But you already knew that.

So here is today’s question:

How can you better model civility today?

How can I?

With family members?
At work?
In line at the store?
At home in the kitchen?
With strangers?
With friends?
At the pedestrian crosswalk?
With colleagues?
At the gym?
In the rush to make an appointment?
When emotions run deep?
When ideals are at stake?

Like the signs above admonish us, let’s make an effort to be nice to each other and commit to building and maintaining civil and constructive relationships.