This Action That Works Every Time by Robert Socha

As an elected Precinct Delegate, I was honored to represent my community at the Michigan Republican Party’s state convention this past Saturday. The convention opened with a rousing speech from South Dakota’s charismatic governor, Kristi Noem. Her rallying cry was unity! She even borrowed one of my favorite quotes from President Ronald Reagan: “The person who agrees with you 80 percent of the time is a friend and an ally, not a 20 percent traitor.”

It was a remarkable attempt to suggest the Michigan GOP set aside its petty infighting and unite, collaborating to portray strength and indivision against an unrelenting foe. Although there was dissension, the delegates summarily dismissed the arguments, and we accomplished our mission of electing two Michigan Supreme Court nominees, college regents, and electors for the general election in November.

The noble and necessary affair included many hours of waiting that seemed to stretch into eternity while the organizers scrambled to fill the time void with entertainment and speeches so the teeming mass of delegates wouldn’t wither in the warmth and boredom.

I am not prone to sitting in one position for long periods. The Italian roots of my nature require whole-body movement and expression, especially with broad articulations of the arms while describing a situation. I would often rise and walk around or stand on the side of the floor, leaning on the barrier that separates the stands in what would be a hockey ring if used for its primary purpose.

While standing there, I conducted a simple experiment to gauge a slight smile’s efficacy. Whenever a delegate walked past, I deliberately tried to catch their eye, lift my countenance, smile, and acknowledge their humanity. Without fail, whenever another delegate caught my glance and received my smile, they would stand a little straighter, lift their head, and return my smile. Every time!

One simple act of kindness would provide a moment of reprieve and an ounce of endurance to complete the task. We are all on this road together, and maybe the call for the day is a simple act of kindness as easy as smiling at people and acknowledging their humanity when they pass you by.