I'm enjoying an opportunity to view democracy in action.
The Western United States Pipe Band Association is currently working their way through a host of proposals designed to modify our Association Bylaws and Contest Rules. Imagine being sequestered in a room with a bunch of Scottish & Irish people, arguing about rules...in Las Vegas of all places!
Some participants will walk away from this event unhappy, some pleased, but importantly, all will have had a chance to experience democracy in action. Representatives come from across the western United States to speak on behalf of themselves as a soloist, judge, or Executive Committee member or on behalf of their constituents: a band or a competition organizing body. Money is spent, time is taken.
A number of the proposals are controversial. It is expected that fervently held beliefs would be associated with emotional outbursts, anger and division; so far this is not happening. Attendees are treating each other with courtesy and respect. There is a desire for honest interaction, making sure all are aware of the facts which are validated to the extent possible as being true and valid. No rancor, no purposeful misleading, no name calling.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if our national and local elections held to these values?
