"You lie!"

President Obama was not the only one who did a double take during his recent health care address to a joint session of Congress when he heard the words, "You lie!" erupt from the audience. I did, too. In my lifetime, which goes back as far as President Truman, this was definitely a first for me. As it turned out, according to the numerous media pundits that have since commented and/or reported on it, it was a first for the nation as well. The owner of those two words, we now know, was Congressman Joe Wilson, a republican from South Carolina. Let me quickly say I was and still am as appalled as any one at the inappropriateness of Wilson's behavior. In the past few days I have been around those who have labeled Wilson "an idiot." I confess I did nothing to refute them. Now, I will content myself to say Wilson merely behaved like an idiot.

Up further reflection, given the tenure of our times, I am not sure Wilson's outburst should really have come as a major surprise to any of us. After all, we have just gotten past a summer of (1) one unruly town hall meeting after another in which many people did little else but yell at each other and at their elected representatives; (2) appearances by the president himself in which a number of attendees actually brought weapons; and (3) cable talk shows and call-in radio shows which did little else but fan the flame of uncivil behavior. (In fact, there are some right now that are actually attempting to depict Wilson as some kind of modern day Patrick Henry.) Given all this, is it any wonder that more of our so-called leaders did not distinguish themselves that night in the manner of Wilson? Actually, some in my view were certainly leaning in that direction. As the President talked they sat in their seats posting messages on their blackberries, sending out tweets to their followers, and waving documents in the air. It no longer seems a coincidence that fewer people these days are referring to our country's Congress as the "greatest deliberative body in the world."

Serious and complex issues cry out for respectful debate, thoughtful dialog, and active listening. Instead, we seem to be witnessing people who should know better talking at rather than with each other. What is particularly frustrating is this is occurring around an issue that has universally been acknowledged as being extremely important and in need of addressing. Here's a thought: maybe instead of electing a president in the next election we should simply elect an all powerful referee. Instead of wearing an expensive suit and tie, this person should wear the traditional black and white striped shirt with a whistle hanging around his or her neck. Until then, another option might be that those in leadership positions might do their best to remember that persuasive communication occurs best when it is wrapped in civility.