Column: Let’s be real

Commentary by Jeff Worrell

In our thriving, bustling and multicultural community, the call for civility has never been more important. Civility isn’t just about politeness or agreeable behavior — it’s about creating an ethos where respect, kindness and genuine connections flourish. At the heart of this movement lies an essential value: authenticity.

Being authentic means being true to yourself while honoring the perspectives and experiences of others. It’s about bringing your whole self to the table — your beliefs, your values, your quirks — and doing so with humility and an open heart. In today’s world, where interactions can sometimes feel transactional or surface-level, authenticity has the power to cut through the noise and remind us of what truly matters: meaningful relationships.

When we practice authenticity, we inspire trust and vulnerability in others, paving the way for deeper understanding. More importantly, authenticity allows us to engage in difficult conversations with grace, because we’re grounded in who we are and respectful of who others are. This mindset is at the core of Carmel’s movement to project civility.

Together, let’s embrace authenticity, not just as an individual value, but as a cornerstone of our community. After all, being real is a big first step towards being civil.