Agree To Disagree

Do you shy away from loaded topics such as politics, religion or climate change, or do you dive right in? Do you argue your points on and on to no end, or listen respectfully and carefully to see why and how they feel like they do?

After seeing the awful screaming match that was the first Presidential Debate, it seems the art of listening respectfully and consciously has been thrown out the window.

What an example these politicians are offering future generations as they watch.

Things already feel politically-charged even before the pandemic. Now as Election Day approaches, people are becoming even more hostile and angry toward others with differing views.

Can we agree to disagree? Can we still have simple, respectful and even insightful, thoughtful conversations while discussing our differing points of view?

Also, does anyone really believe yelling and screaming can change someone’s mind? It could happen but highly unlikely.

How about some better ideas for more meaningful discussions…

1.    Relax. Breathe consciously in-and-out while listening so you don’t react when someone says something you don’t agree with.

2.    Speak with a clear but calm voice and remember to be proactive rather than reactive.

3.    Remember: The person who loses it and starts screaming and yelling always looks worse than his target.

4.    Focus first on finding something you can agree on. Emphasize and reiterate how insightful it is to find common ground. Go from there.

5.    When you “do” disagree, don’t take it personally. We’re all entitled to our own opinions. Just respond with something innocuous, like, “Hmmm, interesting.”

6.    When responding with facts rather than feelings, stay calm, make your point, then close the conversation with a positive word or two and walk away with kindness and compassion.

In the 60’s song, “The Boxer”, Simon and Garfunkel sang that “A man hears what he wants to hear and disregards the rest.” It was true then and even more so now.

Let’s take those lyrics to heart. Let’s put down our need to be right, and simply agree to disagree. We’ll all get along so much better. Unity always wins.

And remember to always, always, always go where the love is. Namaste!