By David Hegg

For a long time, it has been common to hear athletes motivate their teammates by exhorting them to “represent.” It is a call to be the best, giving their best effort, as representatives of their team, school and philosophy of excellence. It is a reminder that each represents the rest of the team. What they did and how they played would affect how those watching would think of the team as a whole.

Like you, my soul has been greatly saddened, even hurt, by the violence and hatred currently bubbling up all around our country. Sadly, while we attempt to be vigilant and united against the looming threat of terrorism by those who hate our country, we are being torn apart by the very real hatred that is increasingly defining our nation.

So, I have a solution. Each of us — you, me, your neighbors, my neighbors, my race, your race, my political group, your political group, my worldview, your worldview — needs to be the best representative of whatever group or category we fall into. And if you eschew categories or groups, be the best representative of those who eschew categories and groups!

© Santa Clarita Valley Signal