In the face of
significant unfair, and untrue, criticism about one’s actions, or alleged lack
of them, the natural reaction is to fight back.
I have always been a fighter and, as a result, have landed myself in hot water
on many occasions as a result of it.
When it comes to politics, I believe that if you choose to put your head above
the parapet, you are fair game. We see plenty of examples of this on a daily
basis. What bothers me though, is that the righteous stance taken by those who
scream and shout loudest, is almost always done with the intention, not of
pointing out or correcting the error of their ways, but with the intention of
gathering the support of the chattering classes, whether justified or not.
We must always be aware of the hidden agenda and be willing to look beyond the
pithy statements issued by those who should know better.
Locally, in recent weeks there has been considerable attention paid to several
key issues in relation to the future of our schools and local government.
Naturally, any decision that is taken (which will not be by me) will not find
favour with everyone. Those who are unhappy are of course keen to express their
displeasure, but what is unacceptable is that when their behaviour and tone are
so intimidating that those with differing views feel afraid to express a
contrary view. Fuelled by ready access to social media this is nothing short of
bullying and is unacceptable. All too often those who wade-in with both guns
blazing, do so from a position of ignorance, merely using the situation as a
point scoring exercise. What is interesting though, is that in the midst of
this manufactured hysteria, those who are most keen to be seen and heard have
until now, when there is political capital to be gained, have shown precious little
interest, or knowledge, in the matter, and even more importantly, are least
likely to be affected.
Those of us in full receipt of the facts know this all too well.
When considering a response to such public comments there can be a tendency to
retaliate, but this just plays into their hands, providing momentum for them to
continue to disburse their viewpoint.
The proverb, ‘those who live in glass houses should not throw stones’ comes to
mind. None of us are perfect, and we are all vulnerable to criticism, which is
why I am choosing to turn the other cheek. Those who need to know the truth do,
and will be able to make their own judgments; in as much as any of us have the
right to pass judgment on others.
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