I long for a world where public figures feel like they can be themselves and speak and act honestly. I rail against them for not having more integrity with that, but we as the community are just as responsible for this problem. Because you can't expect a person to be real if they don't feel like the listeners intend to be understanding. If you want honest speakers, you need honest listeners.
Call it the media, the other politicians, or the people at large... truth is, everyone with a voice has a responsibility to have an ear. We all have a responsibility to pay the respect of an understanding, open heart and mind to whoever is speaking.
We've all had that experience: You're really nice and understanding with someone you just met. To the point where we wonder if we should be piping up and refuting their thoughts. But within 5 minutes, they end up spilling their guts. They get really comfortable and say things like, "I can't believe I'm about to tell you this, but...", while you think things like, "I can't believe this person is telling me this, but..." "Honest" listening creates an environment for honest speaking.
I think what's really happening is the more honest politicians just aren't winning elections because our culture can't handle that kind of honesty yet--we aren't good listeners. Perhaps the one place where we should react with strong sanctions is against anyone or anything whose ear is not at least as large as their voice. And perhaps selective hearing should not be tolerated.
I still think the best leaders should speak with integrity, even in the face of bad listeners. But it's a lot easier for them if we create the environment for that. The entire world will move forward if we all take responsibility for our part. If we want honest leaders, we have to become honest listeners.
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