So ... HOW?

The big question is how do we develop such characteristics and attitudes in the general population?

T

HE answer is: by fully realizing that it's up to us as individuals to bring this about. That means that I must not wait for the next guy to begin being okay. I've got to be okay myself. I've got to be a mensch.

So, are you ready to check out how you measure up?

Check yourself on this list of seven important characteristics. Be honest but not unkind with yourself. Click on the boxes that are applicable to you.

I have ...

Integrity − most of the time I am honest and I try and keep my word.
Consideration for others. I don't push in queues or make a noise in the middle of the night.
Patience and tolerance most of the time − also for people who are different.
The willingness to work hard. I do not call in sick when I am well. I do not take time off my work       at the expense of my employer.
A lack of conceit. I am not unduly proud. I can take criticism when it is justified.
The ability to discern falsehood and to always question the validity of our own opinions.
A positive outlook on Israel most of the time, despite all that needs changing.

Okay, so if you could honestly click on five of the seven boxes you're pretty good. Your presence in any group is probably a positive thing. Check out the items that weren't applicable for you and see if you can change them. You can also call us to discuss the matter. e-mail us. Not that we're perfect. But we do have a lot of answers which we've been told are usually helpful. The main thing to realize that this is the way that the individual can make a difference. Simply by being what is called in a Yiddish, "a mensch" being a decent human being.

In a home where the parents display a good measure of integrity, consideration and tolerance, there is every likelihood that their children will adopt the same attitudes. Mom and Dad (without any intention on their part) will also have some influence on their friends and work colleagues. They will even have an influence on people whom they meet in casual encounters.

This is not as superficial and simplified as it might seem at first glance. All the above-mentioned qualities and attitudes are imperative in any cooperative effort. They engender good morale and motivation. These are also the qualities needed for optimum cooperation as well as good communication. Where there is smooth cooperation, good communication, morale and motivation, the results are bound to be very good. Results in the workplace generally will be much better. The neighborhood will be a happier place. All this can lead to a positive spirit and a belief in ourselves. QED.

But what about efficient government and good leadership?

For too long Israel has been saddled with a lack-lustre, self-indulgent, take-no-responsibility leadership. What can we do about this? Unfortunately not much as long as we have an unsatisfactory governmental framework and party hacks running the country. For the time being, it will be well nigh impossible to change the style of our governments and their performance. It must be remembered that Israel's leaders are the usual run-of-the-mill Israelis, having grown up here and adopting the general mores and attitudes − good and bad − of the citizens. Change mores and attitudes in the general population and we'll finally get a better class politician and better government. It won't be immediate. It will take a few years. And that good government that we're all hoping for (sorry to belabor the point) begins with me and you and our kids and our neighbor. And it must begin now!

Meanwhile, on a day-to-day basis Israelis must strive for excellence in everything they do − trying not to be conceited about any excellence that we might acquire. But the country must create fine products, provide outstanding service in every field, offer excellent education to everyone, create an economy based on hard, honest work and prudence, rather than cushy high paying jobs for a small percentage of functionaries, while pushing profligate spending by everyone, whether affordable or not.

Another sphere in which we can make a difference is by being part of a group or organization working for a good cause. If you have time and inclination you can see other groups here for organizations doing stirling work in the field of good government, pretection of the environment, education, culture, help for the needy members of society and other related issues. You can help by joining one of these organizations as a non-active member or as an active volunteer.

Meanwhile, only we the people can change the mores in Israeli society by making sure that as individuals we are living up to the desired standards of integrity and consideration for others. Check that list again.

But we need to relate to another important issue. Click: