The things we hate the most are the things that bring us closer together. Pain, death and tragedy have a way of unifying people. Disaster has shown the world how everyday heroes sacrifice their lives to help strangers. Differences, beliefs and preferences are put aside to achieve a common goal, survival. After all, deep down inside, there is a love for our fellow man that moves us into action. This love can mutate into hate when you sprinkle in politics. And with the right conditions, hate may transform into violence. We need to take a step away from rage and remember what unites us all, humanity.
Party of Politics
Weddings bring two groups of people together with an objective to support a union. The bride will have a section of family and friends, while the groom’s loved ones may find themselves across the aisle. The purpose, or at least desire, of the wedding party is to play key roles that will contribute to a successful dream come true wedding.
The political parties have their own supporters which invest time and resources behind the candidates they believe in. The two major groups, democrats and republicans, are at odds with each other. Although this may cause tension, everyone has the right to be a free thinker. While clashes between individuals in opposite parties unfold like a nasty divorce, it is important to remember the freedom we have to be different.
We Do Not Have To Agree
We should be able to have a conversation with people that have different political beliefs. In fact, we have to step away from the narrative that people who disagree with us, hate us. Not every person that has a different view is racist or uneducated. Maybe the person on the other side of the aisle has a different set of values. We could agree to disagree with people without berating them. Name calling is the juvenile tool that some result to when they have nothing intelligent to say. Facts and feelings tend to become quite convoluted in politics. Our feelings are often attached to a position but there are times when we use feelings to change the facts.
“Our political fights are bad because we don’t agree on the rules” Jim Geraghty
I am sure that consistency in how accusations, scandals and policy are handled would help promote civilized conversation. There is a shared consensus of animosity as politicians seem to get away with murder, thanks to unlimited resources and friends in high places. It often seems that politicians get into office to fulfill agendas other than why we voted for them.
What We Have In Common
Look, try focusing on what you have in common with someone. If a person with different political views is willing to have a civil conversation with you then go for it. Instead of condemning a person’s viewpoint, find out what contributes to their beliefs.
“Be open and kind” American Psychological Association
Understand that it is not likely that you will be changing anyone’s mind. Your goal should be to gain perspective. When you have the opportunity to chime in, provide a glimpse into the thoughts that revolve in your world. Remember that you can respect their opinions without agreeing with them. Your political party should not characterize you as a terrible person. In fact, if we put aside what we know about a party’s position, we could actually hear the person in front of us.
Politics can be very divisive but you don’t have to hate the person that is simply exercising their right to choose. “Love your neighbor as yourself.” How you see a person can impact how you will treat them. Think of people like your brother or sister, basically envision them like family. You don’t always agree with the people you live with but you find a way to coexist. Stand for what you believe in, just communicate your message in love.