It seems they are having a hard time reaching agreement in Washington. Although the consequences of not achieving agreement are dire to say the least, opposing parties remained locked into their positions. The problem seems to me to lie in a lack of understanding of the concept of agreement.
To begin with, agreement can never be achieved as long as two parties remain opposed to one another. Agreement begins with a mutual and common vision. You would think officials elected to serve the best interests of this country could agree upon that commonness.
With a common vision, acceptance and respect for mutual differences must be acknowledged. Democrats see government as the answer to our economic woes. Republicans see free enterprise and the private sector as the answer. Short term the answer will be costly. Both participating parties need to sacrifice their long term goals in order to focus upon the short term need for survival and new beginning now.
The best of both parties is needed in order to achieve the greater need now. The discipline and strength of government must join the creativity and commitment of the business community to regain our footing and begin the process of rebuilding.
The root word for agreement in the Greek language is sumpheneo. When building the English language "sumpheneo" was borrowed from the Greeks and transliterated to create our word, symphony. Symphonic harmony is what we are missing in Washington. Too many of our leaders insist upon singing solos. Too many seem to not have the capacity to listen for harmonic opportunity.
So, I pray for a symphony in Washington. I pray for a conductor to come forth who can inspire the different parts in harmony. The time for solos is over. Actively listening must begin. The sweet sound of agreement will be welcomed. In the meantime, do well my friends.
