Self-examination for political leaders

The following are two suggestions for our political candidates:

1) Please take some time for 'self-examination.” This essential life exercise encourages you to reflect on who you really are; a person with gifts, talents and virtues. You are also, like all of us, a person with an ego, fears, failings and transgressions. Your courage, faith, empathy and willingness to serve can be called the 'light” side of your personality. The traits of self-importance, jealousy, greed and competitiveness are commonly called your 'shadow self.” Every human has light and shadow. A self-examined life usually leads to growth, humility and kindness toward others and toward your own self. Both light and shadow comprise who we are.

2) As you hope to serve the common good I would also invite you to check your own tax return. How much of your income do you give to charitable causes? As an elected leader you will be spending other people's money through public funds. How we contribute, save and spend in our own household tells a great deal about our true values. The Judeo-Christian tradition has lifted up the tithe, 10 percent of income, as a just sign of generosity and wise stewardship.

Thank you for considering these two life growing practices as you pursue public office.

Randy Kasch

Cedar Rapids

' Editor's Note:

Due to an abundance of election-related community letters and limited newspaper space, some are being published only online in an effort to include as many voices as possible.