Whenever you meet someone who disagrees with you, your most helpful response is, “Tell me more about that.” This gives space for the other person to explain why they believe what they believe. You get to know the person behind the opinion. This is intimacy. You’ll very likely learn something. In turn, feeling valued by you, the other person is more likely to be open to hearing what you believe and why. This makes for great connection, meaningful discussion and the chance for you both to grow in wisdom and understanding. You get to see the goodness in the other person instead of vilifying them because you don’t understand why they think the way they do. This is the way to peace. And frankly, that’s what we’re all looking for anyway.

 

David Larson

Albert Lea