Image Up Advertising & Design

Last month within our message we commented on the importance of participative governance, not necessarily in so many words, but certainly in concept. We emphasized the values of volunteerism, serving others and being appreciative of others' efforts. These concepts, as well as others shared in previous Board messages over the years, are values of a tapestry we are weaving which we hope accurately represents our Four Seasons community. It is our belief that we all want our tapestry to be one about which we can be proud and one that will endure the ravages of time. So, just how do we go about achieving this lofty goal? We submit that a good way to start is by simply being kind to one another. This sounds so very simple, yet in today's fast- paced world of instant gratification, kindness is becoming an endangered species. Potentially, it is an unanticipated consequence of the evolution of social media. We are rapidly losing the art of basic, face-to-face communication and human interaction. Look around. How often do we see people of all ages with their faces buried in some electronic gadget, fingers rapidly pounding away on tiny buttons. And yes, even we silver/ white haired seniors are doing it too! The technological explosion of social media and creation of devices that enable us to use it have contributed to the degradation of social skills. Moreover, the loss of social skills has led to a lack of civility. Unquestionably, there is a proper time and place to make use of all that science and industry have made available to us. Yes, these things can make our world a little easier; help us to reconnect with old friends; share information and priceless photographs of loved ones far away. Without a doubt there are many benefits to these technological advances, but at what cost? Social media is a double-edged sword that can manifest itself in a Jekyll and Hyde manner. All too often people unthinkingly take to their devices and unleash venomous comments which inflict undue harm on others. Would these keyboard warriors say the same things if they were face to face with the person? Most likely they would not. We have all read or heard about tragic consequences that stemmed from inappropriate use of social media. Considerate application of this technology is the key to its responsible and effective use. So, what's the point of all this commentary? It's really not all that deep. Essentially, it is a sincere and heartfelt appeal to everyone to reflect on how we treat others. Be mindful of our actions and their consequences. It can be a simple thing such as taking your pet on a walk. If we don't want our pet relieving itself in our yard, why do we think our neighbors won't mind if our pet uses their yard? How do we rationalize blatantly ignoring posted stop signs and speed limits? Why do some think it's okay to regularly use visitor parking spaces as their own personal space? Most likely these are the result of folks applying "situational ethics." This author's favorite definition of ethical behavior is simply "doing the right thing even when no one is looking." We would like to leave you with the following poignant and applicable quotations from renowned memoirist, poet and civil activist, Maya Angelou. "I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one." "Hate has caused a lot of problems in the world, but has not solved one yet." "If you find it in your heart to care for somebody else, you will have succeeded." "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." When our tapestry is displayed, do we not want it to be a beautiful representation of our collective values and collaborative efforts? We share these thoughts for your consideration and introspection. Please enjoy, and reflect. | Four Seasons Hemet Herald | MAY 2018 | 3 Message From the Board of Directors On behalf of your Board of Directors, Jim Hatcher, Ken Pounders, Tony Criscenti, Gene Hikel, Jim Crase, and Greg Rockvam, Russ Brown President

• Cover