Arguing, shouting, criticizing, browbeating… It can get ugly when we talk about government these days. Conversations become competitions, instead of a reasonable debate. Anger and arrogance take the place of compassion and goodwill.

But what if we tried a different approach, and listened first? We can start with thoughtful questions and then present our ideas. That is what a person of high character would do. That is what a Windrose leader would do.

This second tactic is marked by civility. The honesty and respect behind that kind of attitude is so refreshing. It means we might actually get somewhere thanks to substantive discussion and debate. We might be able to agree on the problems in our community and our country as a whole. Then we can start working together to find creative solutions that really work.

This blog is all about promoting civil discourse among the members of the Windrose Project. By civil discourse, we mean engaging in a give-and-take conversation with the goal of a mutual understanding of the truth, because ideas have consequences. As we examine current events, we want to carefully consider the world around us and always be willing to listen to others, so that we can respond with greater understanding.

At The Windrose Project, we believe that all people are created with a conscience and the ability to think. We want you to have a solid foundation for making good decisions both as a young American and an active citizen.

We can start with thoughtful questions and then present our ideas. That is what a person of high character would do. That is what a Windrose leader would do.

In order to do that, each of us must consult our inner moral compass, that part of us that decides what is right and what is wrong. We must find where the compass points in order to navigate a crisis, or even just make everyday decisions.

But how do we develop good judgment? How do we cultivate the character behind the compass? First, we must educate ourselves and get informed on the issues that matter most to our future, and our country’s future. Then, we form the habits of good character: a thousand good choices made for the right reasons, and then a thousand more.

This blog is about a quest for truth in a generation starving for direction. We want to change the world, but we have to know where to start. The Windrose Project is committed to developing leaders by teaching young Americans to defend the constitution and to lead by serving their community. A new generation of freedom starts here! Stay connected with Compass Point, and together we can navigate the future of our country.