As a consequence, there seems to be a disconnect between the values that supposedly were taught in our social institutions and how some now view life. Most disturbing is that some are now making laws and public policies that govern our lives today. Some are able to dismiss the misfortune of others with political and philosophical labels, because to them it is an abstraction; thus empathy and compassion for the plight of others can be rationalized away. Only when it happens to them may some remember and practice the lessons they learned from their parents, teachers and spiritual leaders.

My mother taught me that "we came in to the world with nothing, and we leave it with nothing. The important thing is, have we left it better?" I'm reminded of that every time I end up at a clinic or in a hospital with those backless gowns — where we are all alike, in the same helpless condition, looking for a little compassion. Maybe when we elect our leaders, we should elect those who can keep that in mind.

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Utah native John Florez has founded several Hispanic civil rights organizations, served on the staff of Sen. Orrin Hatch and on more than 45 state, local and volunteer boards. He also has been deputy assistant secretary of labor. E-mail: ">jdflorez@comcast.net