There's Always More Room

Recently had a conversation with two friends who are having greater difficulty having conversations with those with differing opinions than theirs.  After we had a chuckle over the fact that it may simply be due to our becoming chronologically superior and thus more set in our ways, we began to discuss this in earnest.

No doubt, it can be tricky, especially when entering terrain that is highly emotional.  And for those who avoid confrontation, ‘tis better to walk away than stir up a hornet’s nest. Opposition is uncomfortable. Hostility is unhealthy.  Conflict can feel like a battleground.  This can make for a prickly relationship, assuming a relationship already exists. No wonder we move away from those who differ in opinion. Makes sense, right? 

But wait.  What about the benefits?  Well, bringing together those differing opinions can bring about novel perspectives.  Alternative viewpoints can even bring about consensus.  And what better way to solve a problem than to have creative input from differing views.

Want to do better?  Want to be better?  Saddle up next to another who doesn’t think like you, look like you, act like you.  Challenge yourself to see it from another viewpoint.  That doesn’t necessarily mean agree.  It means be open to it.  Be bold enough to soften the death grip you have on your thoughts and ideas. 

It’s a big, beautiful world out there with as many viewpoints as there are people and there is room at the table for everyone.