No one's perfect, but let's try listening (and let's talk in our nice voices)

I know my stance about positive political discourse might be surprising for some who know me for having a flashing temper. However, I am trying to improve, and I practice civility, though I might slip at times. Things I do try to avoid are categorizing and generalizations about political parties or people. I believe there are fundamental differences between acting in a deplorable manner while under great duress and behaving deplorably as a method of force, without rational thought—while defending one’s right bray while denying another that same right.

Shouting down differing opinions does not change the opinion, nor does it lead to anything constructive in the way of compromise or of brainstorming new, inventive ways to approach the challenges we have. If we can refrain from personalities and hate generation, we might be able to find common ground—or even new grounds on which to agree. It isn’t going to happen, though, without a willingness to listen to differing opinions. Obviously, we all favor our own opinions, but a willingness to consider change opens doors, instead of closing them.

One of the biggest looming political problems is the relationship between the United States and the Middle East. In order to solve these problems, we must listen to Iran, we must listen to Palestine, and we must truly hear what they have to say, and what they believe can be done to find positive solutions to their challenges.

In a thoughtful interview, peace activist and compassionate listener, Gene Knudsen Hoffman was asked, “You frequently say that ‘An enemy is one who story we have not yet heard.’ What do you mean by that? Do you contend that terrorists have resorted to violence because their stories have not been heard?”

She wrote, “Yes, I do contend. I think a terrorist is someone who thinks his/her grievances will never be heard and never addressed, and I think that causes deep pain and anger which is an invitation to violence. I believe violence is caused by our unhealed wounds. I think not being heard and not being listened to is a grave wound.” (From, Which Way Should We Go Now? [page 53] Anthology: Sustainability, Radical Solutions Inspiring Hope, Ed. Bob Banner, HopeDance: San Luis Obispo, CA).

She writes the truth. Fear and unheard grievances prevent us from positive political discourse. Let’s listen, today.

Peace and blessings (practice the first; count the second).