Column: Never delight in another’s defeat

Commentary by Jeff Worrell

Victory can be sweet, but the measure of true leadership is how we handle not only our wins, but also the losses of those we once opposed. There’s a fundamental principle of civility that calls us to rise above division, look for any common ground and never delight in another’s defeat.

In sports, we admire the athlete who shakes hands, not the one who gloats. In business, true professionals recognize that competition makes them better, but never take pleasure in a rival’s downfall. And in civic life, respect and how we argue matters just as much as the issues we debate.

A community is strongest when all voices are heard, even those that disagree with us. When an opponent stumbles, our response should not be smug celebration but reflection — what can we learn? How do we move forward together?

Civility means embracing the humanity in every person, recognizing that today’s opponent might be tomorrow’s ally. A victory without dignity is hollow, but a win tempered with grace sets the tone for a better, stronger community. So, let’s lead with kindness, listen with empathy and remember — our greatest triumphs are measured not just in what we gain, but in how we treat others along the way. Be civil!