Today is Election Day in the United States. It’s a big one. We’re voting to determine the next President of the country in a time of intense polarization and disappointing discord. In light of this, I want to call your attention to the Japanese concept of “giri” (義理) which speaks to the profound sense of duty and obligation we hold in our social relationships. It reminds us that we exist within a web of responsibilities – to our families, our communities, and our nation. As we approach this election, giri offers valuable wisdom about balancing our civic duties with social harmony.
In the United States, the right to vote stands as one of our most sacred privileges. This right, hard-won through generations of struggle and sacrifice, carries with it a deep responsibility. Just as giri calls us to honor our obligations to family and community, it also beckons us to fulfill our duties as citizens of this democracy.
Voting isn’t merely about exercising a right – it’s about participating in the collective process that shapes our nation’s future. When we cast our ballot, we honor the sacrifices of those who fought to secure and protect this fundamental freedom. We acknowledge our role in the continuing story of American democracy.
Yet giri teaches us another crucial lesson: the importance of maintaining social harmony even amid differing viewpoints. In today’s politically charged environment, we must remember that our neighbors, colleagues, and family members may make different choices at the ballot box. These differences need not divide us.
True civic engagement requires both conviction and compassion. While we should vote our conscience and advocate for our beliefs, we must also preserve the bonds that make our communities strong. Democracy thrives not just on participation but on the ability to disagree respectfully and maintain relationships across political divides.
As you fulfill your civic duty this election season, remember that your vote matters – but so do your relationships. Let’s approach this important moment with the balanced wisdom of giri, honoring both our democratic responsibilities and our obligations to maintain the social fabric that binds our communities together.
After all, the strength of our democracy lies not just in how we vote, but in how we treat each other when the votes are counted.
Happy Voting! Happy Networking!
P.S. – It turns out my favorite election worker is my dear not-so-old dad, Max Muller. A lifelong relationship builder and principled Election volunteer, Daddy Max has always encouraged my brothers and me to speak our truth and get out the vote. He’s a true giri practitioner and today is his 77th birthday. He voted. As a special gift to him, I’m asking you to go vote, too. And, HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PA! I hope all of your candidates win…