This week's Pep Talk Blog: "Take Time to Dine"

It was late afternoon of Christmas Eve 2009, gifts were wrapped, kids were shopping, the house was quiet and I had time to read the newspaper. There were many stories about the Senate’s efforts to pass its version of a national health care reform bill.

One story was an analysis of how polarizing the American political process has become. Many senators expressed dismay bitter and partisan politics have replaced civil and common sense lawmaking within the hallowed halls of our democracy.

Whenever I get the chance to present a Pep Talk, we talk a lot about the importance of teamwork. I can remember from my high school days a sign that was in my direct sight each and every day I dressed for practice: “It’s amazing what can be accomplished when nobody cares who gets the credit.” It’s a truth whether we’re talking about success in sports, relationships, business or passing much-needed health care legislation – whatever. We are at our best when there’s a prevailing spirit of working together – one heart beat - for the common good.

In conclusion, the author, in describing the political – and often personal – divisions now characterizing the Senate, mentioned the Senator’s private dining room. It used to be packed daily with lawmakers breaking bread with one another. No staff or spouses allowed. It was a sanctuary where senators, in an informal way, got to know one another. They connected. The casual atmosphere and sharing of food seemed to help lawmakers work through different viewpoints about important issues they must address – we hope - in ways that honor, nurture and add value to our country.

Sadly, the Senate dining hall sits virtually empty these days. Apparently, few see the value of connecting. Few see the value of: “it’s amazing what can be accomplished when nobody cares who gets the credit.”

Let this be a lesson for each of us. Are there issues at home, work or community that need to be addressed? It starts with sitting down and communicating with one another. The Senate has a dining hall – at its beckon call – that’s crying out “Use me to help settle your differences!”

For whatever reason, at this time, our elected officials have decided it’s of little value. Let’s not fall into a similar trap, okay? If you have challenges at home, work or community look around and take advantage of, - or create - opportunities to connect with others in the fray: it might be the dinner table, a company retreat or neighborhood meeting.

Take time to dine with others on a feast of new thoughts. It’s the best way to avoid going hungry for healthy and productive solutions to whatever ails us.