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“What is the world coming
to?”
Consider the
following:
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Parents attacking coaches or other parents at
little league games. Is winning really more important than
integrity?
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Children bullying other children on school
playgrounds and neighborhood parks. Where lays their compassion?
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Blaming others for our mistakes and making
excuses for our lack of preparation on the job. Where lays the
truth?
America’s greatness in productivity and prosperity is
being overshadowed by corporate corruption, distrust of the political
system, increased juvenile delinquency, broken homes and overcrowded
prisons. According to an old adage, “America is great because America
is good. When America ceases to be good, she will cease to be great.”
As we acknowledge the crisis, must we embrace the
challenge and address it. Character is taught by example. Reflect
upon the role models in your life, both past and present. It is
likely that your list includes individuals from several sectors of life.
Subsequently, it is time our community recognizes its value by providing
strong character examples for our youth. Our families, employers,
ministers, city leaders, teachers, coaches, and police must model good
character. Together we can positively impact the young
people in Lee’s Summit, if we consciously choose to do so.
The first step has already been taken. Lee’s Summit CARES has
formed a Lee’s Summit Character Council, whose goal is to establish
Lee’s Summit as a Community of Character. We have leadership involvement
from important sectors in our community: family, schools, city
government, law enforcement, parks and recreation, media,
workplace/chamber, faith, and health care. Now, we are seeking your
involvement.
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