The Reason We Lead: Why Civil Dialogue Matters Now More Than Ever

During my time in office, I have seen what real leadership looks like when communities face difficult conversations. I have watched neighbors sit across from each other with completely opposing views. By the end of the night, they had not changed their positions, but something more important had changed. They saw each other as people rather than opponents.

In moments like that, I am reminded that leadership is not about winning an argument; It is about creating space for understanding.

In a world that often rewards volume over value, we need leaders who choose connection over division. Simon Sinek reminds us that authentic leadership begins with why. We engage in dialogue, even when it is hard, because communities do not fracture from disagreement. They fracture when we stop listening.

Disagreement is not a sign of weakness. It is proof that our community includes people with different experiences, different struggles, and different hopes. Civil dialogue allows us to see those differences, respect them, and potentially even reframe our understanding because of them.

The future of our region will not be shaped by those who speak the loudest, but by those who listen deeply, disagree respectfully, and move communities forward together.

Leadership is not about thinking alike. It is about having the courage to think together.

-Michelle