Accountability

Accountability in our society is very finite.

When someone does something wrong and is held accountable not only by themselves but also by others, they are treated in a way that could only leave room for hatred and disdain.

Some of the consequences we impose on ourselves, such as isolation from loved ones and society, are hefty prices to pay and do not offer alternatives to right the wrong someone has done.

A thief is not a thief because they enjoy it for sport. Sometimes a thief is created from hunger and neglect.

But a thief, when facing accountability, is not asked their reason without judgement, and instead of receiving a meal and a way to make more, they are isolated, ostracized, and still hungry.

Which, in my opinion, does not make for an environment conducive to learning, compassion, and growth. But instead one of hatred, disdain, and sometimes despair. It also does not allow room for the individual to take personal accountability and move forward with the resources they need.

What if our society’s standard for accountability were one where our “petty” crimes weren’t met with year-long isolation but instead rehabilitation? Can we as a larger group of people truly claim we hold ourselves to a certain standard of living if we have not yet exhausted all our efforts and resources to ensure everyone has the things needed to maintain the standard we set?