By Staff
Decades ago a sociological study was conducted in New York City's Grand Central Station.
Panhandling was the focus of the study. The group of researchers wanted to know what method of asking for money was most effective.
Several approaches were used. Students, posing as "bums," as street people were called then, were sent out to ask people for money.
In one method the "bum" used the head-on (or direct) approach, held out his hand and asked for a buck.
Another approached from the side, a third approached the prospective donor from behind and a fourth fell into step with the "target", walking several steps, in step, with the prospect before asking for a handout.
The consistent result was that "bums" approaching the donor and falling into step with him or her, received a handout.
The other methods were only inconsistently successful.
Social workers, counselors and therapists today are well aware of the wisdom gleaned from this study in approaching people and working with them on problems.
Getting into step and walking with clients, figuratively (and often literally), results in successful treatment.
This theme is played out in many venues and situations.
For instance, a team of horses needs to be in step to harmoniously pull a load.
A marching band must march in step.
An orchestra or choir needs to follow a director. An army is in step with commanders.
Have you heard about the proud mother of Billy? He had difficulty keeping up with the high school marching band.
Standing on the sidewalk watching the band parade by, Billy's mother commented to her friend, "Well, look at that! Everyone except Billy is out of step!"
It's important for a community to be in step. Getting into step does not imply blatant conformity; it does imply civil communication and cooperation.
Pulling together gets the job done, whatever that job (or goal) may be.
Sometimes our community reminds me of horses pulling in different directions, resulting in important issues being torn apart. This tactic was used in the barbaric practice of drawing and quartering the enemy – attaching a rope to each arm and leg and tying the ropes to four horses pulling in four different directions. Eventually the person was pulled apart.
Getting in step with each other, being civil, having respect for each other (including respect for our elected officials) will get the job done. Focusing on issues rather than on personalities, on needs more than wants, on good- and not ill-will, will move us ahead.
Charging ahead blindly, swinging clubs, pointing spears and flaying swords with unleashed anger will probably simply hack up everything we have.
While our national leaders have a tough time getting in step with each other in Washington, perhaps we here in Dowagiac can learn to listen, understand and work together.
In my opinion, getting in step means joining forces, sharing knowledge, cooperating and showing respect.
My mother used to remind my sisters and me that you catch more flies with honey than vinegar.
Kindness and respect will only beget kindness and respect.
Isn't that what community is all about?