When we were in the military they taught a technique called TQM. Many joked TQM stood for “Time to Quite the Military. Now they are likely teaching Six Sigma. The main point I’m driving at is a technique that was taught to fix things quickly.

You outlined all the problems. Then you had the group which included an outsider rate the problems on a scale of 1 to 10. Ten is the most important and one the least. Normally, if you worked the top 1 or 2 problems the others would dissipate or you would fix 90% of the overall problems.

If we look at our country today a lack of accountability would top the list of issues. We can see it in government at all levels. We see it in our courts. We see it in our schools and even in poorly run businesses.

Anytime there is a lack of accountability things fall apart. Think about the old Soviet Union if you are old enough to remember it. Why did it fail? Communism and Socialism lack accountability. So-called “responsibility” was shared. Corruption leaks in as soon as people believe there will be no consequence for their actions or lack of action.

I could go on and on with examples. No need. I’m sure you get it if you think about it for just a minute or two. The question is “What can we do about it?”

Everything starts at the local level. First, you must live a responsible life. Then you must hold friends and family accountable. From there you hold your local schools and government officials accountable. Everything starts with you and me. It’s personal!