Beliefnet is running a poll on reader’s response to the Rabbi Shmuley Boteach’s column on Dan Rather’s apology. He contends that, even though Rather should apologize to Bush as well as the public, people should not call for his resignation. As of this morning Beliefnet readers disagree by a margin of 57% to 43%. (You will see the poll questions to the right of the Rabbi’s column.)
The poll questions are interesting:
• Yes, his credibility is irreparably damaged.
• No, his apology is enough.
In my opinion, CBS’s credibility was already damaged. Rathergate only confirmed what I already know (or think that I know). Hence the apology doesn’t change anything.
There is, however, another issue: Reconciliation vs. Forgiveness. It is possible – even vital – to forgive those who have harmed us. Reconciliation will follow if the person who has harmed us is able to undo or repair the harm. If they don’t, or can’t, even make an attempt at reparation, we still need to find forgiveness. The importance of this is underlined by the proverb that harboring resentment is like drinking poison and waiting for the other fellow to die. (I have my share of resentments - minor resentments - towards televised news.)
What makes it so tough for Dan Rather is that damage done by public charges (aka gossip) is virtually impossible to repair. He may find forgiveness. Reconciliation will be much tougher.
I would not call for Dan Rather’s resignation. If he judges that resignation will help repair the damage done to Bush and CBS, then he should resign. But it is not for me to judge.
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