It has been a trying few weeks in our country and our world. It seems like not a day passes without us hearing of a violent attack somewhere. Though we here in Maine have been thankfully spared from the actual violence we are not spared from the heartbreaking news and its effect on our world.

While many of the issues we are dealing with in this world are going to take time, heavy effort, and a shift in people’s attitudes and actions around the globe, I still hold on to hope that here in our little corner of Maine we can improve life for ourselves, our families, and for our community, by taking small steps toward being engaged in civic life and promoting service and kindness.

As a society, we seem to have lost the expectation that we should be held accountable for our actions and that in doing so, we improve our character and develop our ability to survive the inevitable ups and downs of life. When I was a teacher, I saw kids fighting rules and discipline, even as they sought it. It seems to me that the world has lost the sense in many ways that self-discipline and responsibility aren’t negative, that they provide a structural direction that builds a sense of self and belonging. It’s not an issue restricted to any one group, community, political party, or country. Many leaders aren’t role models of personal responsibility, but we need them to be. Perhaps some of this can be attributed to the “gotcha” culture we’ve collectively created, where even small missteps and human foibles become fodder for the cannon. While it is always tempting to get a laugh, or to further one’s own interest at the expense of others, particularly on the political stage, is it really worth the cost to hurting another, hurting their reputation and overall continuing to devalue our fellow humans? I don’t believe so, and I believe we need to make our way back to focusing on policy, to taking responsibility for what we do or do not do, and being involved in activities that further good in this world – not hatred.

Civic organizations, local churches, schools, and private charities all offer ways to get involved, make a difference, and serve as a role model of personal responsibility in a world plagued by apathy and mistrust. I’d encourage anyone who is looking for a way to give back to call up one of the many organizations here in York County, or to use www.volunteermaine.org to find an opportunity.

In addition, if you’re disappointed in the way you see our political system and political rhetoric heading, don’t tune out – get involved. A very small, but important way each of us can accept responsibility is to actively engage in our upcoming elections – to read up on the issues, ask questions, and, of course, vote. I’ve heard too many people say they’re fed up with politics and overwhelmed by the issues we face. That they’re tuning out. Now is not the time to tune out – during these troubling times we need every citizen participating in our democracy.

None of us can turn the tide alone. We must work together, discuss the issues, and become active in serving our communities if we are to help move us in a direction of positivity, cooperation, and respect.

— State Sen. David Woodsome, R-Waterboro, represents Senate District 33, which includes Cornish, Limerick, Newfield, Parsonfield, Sanford, Shapleigh and Waterboro.