Where is good citizenship?

By Peter McMurran, Henderson

Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015 | 2 a.m.

The other day while walking my 5-month-old Akita on a leash at my local park, an unleashed dog came bolting at my puppy. While I moved to protect my dog, one of the owners, a teenager, gained some control of the dog. As I politely mentioned to him to get the dog on a leash, as that is the law, his mother yelled something to the effect, “Shut the (bleep) up, old man.” I told her this was not a dog park and the law requires dogs to be leashed at all times. She continued to spew invective while I backed away from her and said rather pointedly that I could call animal control to settle this situation.

I left the park wondering what happened to good citizenship. I grew up in the turbulent ’60s, but good citizenship was taught in school and at home. Obey the laws, respect authority, positively contribute to society, aid those who cannot aid themselves and seek to do the right thing. All were attributes that were recognized as personal, achievable goals. It unfortunately appears these traits are no longer taught or recognized in a society that appears more consumed with discord and an “I’ll do what I want, get out of the way” attitude. It is regrettable to realize that poor citizenship is the new normal.

In 2015, if we all practiced good citizenship, it would be a refreshing start to the betterment of our society. Happy New Year, indeed.