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Hello Beloved Community!
I had mentioned in last month’s newsletter that I would be sharing some thoughts as to how we might stay centered and in connection with one another during the election cycle. In preparation for the Leaning In series (our Featured Event this month) that we will be kicking off on Saturday, September 14, in partnership with the Spirituality Network and the Interfaith Association of Central Ohio, I have been reading Monica Guzman’s book, I Never Thought of It That Way. Her book offers some wonderful insight as to how we can stay fearlessly curious about one another and how we can challenge some of the assumptions that we make of those who have a different political leaning than we do by engaging in “bridging conversations”.
I have had conversations with folks about the book, and the importance of figuring out a way to stay in conversation with one another when we hold different political opinions. On more than one occasion I have been told by some that they have no interest in figuring out how to talk to those “on the other side”. The declaration is generally made with a sense of exasperation and exhaustion. I have been thinking a lot about the status of our connectedness with those whom we may differ in how we see the state of the world and our country. I’d like to present two arguments as to why we must strive to stay in communication with those with whom we disagree.
First, as people of faith, we profess to believe that we are all made in the image of God, and we are all children of God. I believe that the “Othering” that we do with those with whom we disagree is inconsistent with living as people of faith. This doesn’t mean that we must agree, but it does mean that I can grow in my understanding of myself, and the other, if I can challenge assumptions that I am making about the other.
Second, I believe that by committing ourselves to be curious and intentionally challenging our assumptions that we make of those with whom we disagree, is a declaration of our freedom, an act of rebellion, perhaps even civil disobedience. Our political leaders, our media, our own tribes/echo chambers call on us to distrust, disrespect, and demean “the other side”. There is no freedom, discovery, or learning exercised in doing so.
I encourage us all to step outside of the vitriolic rhetoric and step away (for a moment) from those who think as you do. Seek out those who think differently than you do. Seek out someone who would welcome a conversation based on curiosity instead of confrontation. Someone who would be willing to talk about their hopes and concerns for our country and demonstrate a willingness to hear about yours. Someone who would rather have conversations shoulder to shoulder rather than face to face.
Make no mistake, these conversations can be difficult and emotionally charged. They require very intentional skill development. The skills can be learned, if the commitment is present. We will be talking more about these skills at the September 14th Leaning In session.
I would also recommend the following books and podcasts:
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I Never Thought of It That Way – Monica Guzman
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Learning to Disagree – John Inazu
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How Minds Change – David McRaney
- You Are Not So Smart Podcast – David McRaney
- A Braver Way Podcast – Monica Guzman
I will leave you with these questions posed by Monica Guzman in her book:
- Are you willing to believe that you are wrong about something?
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What are you wrong about? (This one should stump you. You will only find out by having a conversation with someone who sees the world differently than you do.)
- What do you value most, truth or your own beliefs?
Stay curious, connected, and committed my friends!
Blessings to you,
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