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Let’s Stop Avoiding Disagreements
We Could Learn a Lot From the “Other”
When I claim to be part of a trend, I admit that it is from my perspective, my point of view. But here’s my claim anyway. I think people want to solve this problem of being able to talk across differences. It’s been a concern of mine since the Trump years and my frustration with having civil conversations with those on the “other” side.
We weren’t always so reticent to get into more than superficial conversations. There was a time when conversations went back and forth. We shared opposing ideas, and when it came to a standstill, we could agree to disagree. Now, we avoid those difficult topics. Sadly, these are the topics that people feel most passionately about — politics and religion. There are too many stakes. We don’t want to rock the boat, cause a scene, or damage an otherwise positive relationship.
On the other hand, what are we missing out on by staying silent? Are those higher stakes?
We lose an opportunity to inform and educate. Misinformation and disinformation is a problem, and we could be part of the solution. If your intention is this, it must be done without condescension or judgment. This takes skill and self-awareness. I do have a lot of frustration when I attempt this and they refuse to acknowledge that their information is…
