by David Safier
I had a long phone conversation with someone from another state about an education concern we have in common. I sensed early we probably didn't agree on political issues, so I stayed away from political topics, as did she. We had a very enjoyable, informative conversation which was valuable for both of us.
The next day she sent me an email with this paragraph, which I am editing only to keep her identity and the nature of our discussion private.
I had to chuckle when I looked at your blog because I'm about as conservative a human being as you've ever met. Yet, not only are you a liberal with whom I share some passionate views, but [other people I work with on education issues] are very liberal. It just goes to show that liberals and conservatives can work together when they have pure motives and passion for the general well-being. We could all teach Washington something.
To which I say, Amen. I must admit, this kind of thing doesn't happen to me as often as it should, but when it does, it renews my faith in our abilities to transcend our political differences and find areas where we can agree and work together.
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Our disagreements are around the edges, Pam, but still, you’re right, we have no problem disagreeing with one another. But the other part this whole thing is, it has to go both ways. Progressives have to be willing to listen to conservatives, but they have to be willing to listen as well.
Case in point: I was putting up Barber signs, and a Jesse Kelly supporter stopped and accused me of taking down Kelly signs. I hadn’t, of course. He walked away in a huff, then turned around and said, “How in the world could you vote for Obama?” I walked toward him quietly and asked sincerely, “Do you want to have a discussion or an argument?” He paused about a second and said, his voice raised, “An argument!” That was the end of things, but I would have been happy to have a discussion about why I support Obama and he doesn’t. Wasn’t gonna happen.
Agreed. Last Sunday at the UU Church, the lay sermon focused on the similarities between martial arts and religion. (Those UUs.) Anyway, the premise was: UU are taught that all humans are valuable and worthy of love and respect, and they also are taught to avoid of violence and are given strategies to help them avoid violence. In martial arts, students are taught to respect their opponents and avoid fighting– although they are given the skills to protect themselves.
I know that you and I disagree on some issues, but we agree on many more, and we don’t bash each other. I wish more people would be accepting of others’ opinions and drop the smear campaigns and dirty dealings to discredit those who merely disagree.