The Wednesday Wonk is seeking a series of amendments that—if adopted—would improve the quality of life for all Americans. They would take some day-to-day stress out of our lives and perhaps help us become better citizens. Let the Wonk walk you through these amendments:

• Amendment #1: Common Courtesy: Many of us grew up knowing very well how to extend common courtesy to one another. For example, I wouldn’t dream of interrupting you during a conversation—except if I had some really exciting news! Now, we only hear the loudest voice in the room. This skews our political dialogue towards extremes and discourages honest dialogue.

• Amendment #2: Empathy: Once we enact this amendment—our world will change. An amendment mandating empathy requires that I think of the other guy’s point of view. What led that person to take this position? What might I learn to look at life through a different lens? I may not agree with that point of view—but I take the time to acknowledge that –golly-gee—there are other points of view. I may adamantly disagree with you. I might even try to convince you to alter your position. Nevertheless, instituting empathic understanding may go a long way to improving our civil discourse. Granted, finding an appropriate legislative vehicle may be tricky—but well worth the time.

• Amendment #3: Seeking Compromise: Back in the 1970s, when the Wonk worked on Capitol Hill, we often sought legislative compromise. Somewhere along the line, the word ‘compromise’ became a naughty word—rarely spoken. For some reason—which boggles the mind—the political parties cannot or will not agree on anything. Democrats and Republicans alike dig in their heels, like recalcitrant children who won’t eat their spinach. This leads us nowhere and frays at the fabric of democracy! Mandating compromise will not be an easy thing. It will take our very best efforts to implement this amendment. Yet, this particular might help us to give a little and take a little. Imagine moving forward while working together.

• Amendment #4: Bipartisan Legislative efforts: Every now and then, you’ll hear about some bipartisan working group working on an issue. (As the Wonk writes this editorial, one such group working on voting rights.) Why is this such a shock? The D’s and R’s have much to learn from one another. Let’s face it: both parties have admirable qualities, and nobody has a monopoly on ideas. Yet I must warn my readers that this is the most dangerous of these amendments because it might result in getting something done. (Good heavens—we can’t have that!)

• Amendment #5: Kindness: We’ve all seen the bumper sticker: PRACTICE RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS. We all smile at the quaint notion—reminding us of grade school. Here’s the thing: everyone is hungry for human kindness. Everyone needs a warm smile right now. In a world gone mad—it’s these small kindnesses that help us feel connected and alive! What would it look like if kindness broke out in the legislative process? Please understand: people on Capitol Hill work very hard on very complex policy matters. So, I wonder what difference it could make if they received an email from a colleague thanking them for their work or a hot cup of coffee at the beginning of a long meeting? The kindness amendment will be easiest to implement—once people rediscover what it means!

Let me be clear: our country is in a very precarious position right now, and it will take some time to heal our collective wounds. Moreover, improving the language of our political discourse will not solve the problems we face. Yet, it’s a start. Who knows? It might even lead to transformation. Before is close, the Wonk must offer a confession: while I believe strongly in the points I’ve just laid out—I don’t always practice these precepts. Here’s the thing: if you and I begin to act on these nutty ideas—courtesy, kindness, compromise, etc.—we will change, and so will our country.

Have a TERRIFIC week. Let me hear from you!

Until next time,

Happy Reading!