What we need now is the 2nd part of Compassionate Leadership – ACTION!

We are once again stunned – shocked – numbed by the news unfolding in Lewiston, Maine where another senseless act of violence has taken the lives of many innocent people and where many have been injured. There are simply no words adequate, compared to those feelings near and dear to our hearts, in expressing the sorrow we all feel for the families and friends who have lost loved ones.

The State of Maine’s motto appears on a small banner beneath the North Star that shines at the top of the State seal and the State flag and the meaning of DIRIGO is “To Direct” – “To Lead.” And it is exactly what we need now in our elected officials. The definition of Compassionate Leadership is “Empathy in Action” and the inertia of our leaders to take the necessary action to address gun violence is simply unacceptable! They must take action – now – to stop the continual onslaught on innocent lives in places where everyone should feel safe. A recent gallop poll indicated 25% of our world’s population feels lonely and acts like what occurred yesterday serves to further push our society into isolation. I am simply exhausted by the notion that empathy will solve the current loss of lives. The stark reality is – It will not! We need action paired with empathy and I for one will be casting my vote for leaders who are committed to the notion that Compassionate Leadership is “Empathy in Action!”

For now, let us join our hearts in prayer to remember our fellow citizens in the State of Maine.