The best possible light

Our nation's been in a momentary fit of proposing that we
exercise more civility in public life. Before we get back to our uncivil ways,
we have time to reflect on the question: are there overlooked resources that
the public, or at least huge chunks of it, might turn to on this subject?

I'll offer one that will sound extremely particular,
parochial and sectarian. What if God, as revealed to the vast majority in this
Judeo- and Christian culture, were called upon and listened to? I will draw on
the tradition in which I was brought up and that I still cherish, even as I
paddle in ecumenical waters and interfaith seas: Martin Luther's The Small Catechism, which we kids
memorized, or his The Large Catechism, which
remains an adult guide.

Luther's "explanation" to the eighth/ninth
commandment--let's be civil and not fight about the numbering--came to mind
amid commercials and media appearances by candidates of all stripes last year.
"You are not to bear false witness against your neighbor," says the
commandment, and Luther explains,