This speaks to me. After taking time out from my former political life, I’ve gone from running to trouble when I see it, to trying to listen more. My views haven’t changed but I feel better. I’m naturally a person that *wonders* about things, and I was making too many assumptions about people for my own good.
If I’m up for it, my favorite way to go about it when confronted by someone who seems to be a good person w opposing views is “I’m interested in how you came to that view. “ and letting them talk.
Lots to unpack usually and I do feel like when met with love rather than fear…. It maybe invites others into what we hold most dear and important. 💙
Like Leslie’s comment above this resonated with me. So many times I’ve encountered the comment, “I don’t want to talk politics”…and I’m always befuddled as to why can’t we talk politics? One of my former University of MN college professors, Bill Doherty, of Braver Angels, says it best, “I see it as my own form of duty and patriotism to help folks in our country talk to each other… when that happens then real relationships and understanding can follow.”
Exactly! You may not change minds in the moment, but you don't know how your discourse might seep back into their thoughts too. I'm all for planting the seed.
I could have written this myself! I love your arguments that allowed your new friend to really think about where her vote will go. After attempting to have a discussion on FB with the other side after the shooting in Georgia, I finally realized I was wasting my breath. I'll never change anybody's mind using social media, but I'll still try (I shared this piece). Starting now, I'll work at "whisper talking" in person with anybody who wants to chat about politics and why it's important that we vote blue. Thanks for a great article!
Thank you Stephanie! I admire you for having a civil conversation. My church recently hosted a meeting on having respectful conversations during this political season. Most of the people who attended were like-minded, but we talked about how to approach a conversation with others who are on the other side of the political spectrum. On a positive note: I recently went on a short road trip west of the Cities. During other election years there were lots of T@*&% flags and signs but this time I just saw 3! WE CAN DO THIS!!! LFG!!!
An excellent piece, Steph! No one but Dems talk politics with me. I will try to listen and be curious and find the grace you wisely employed with your new friend!
People usually vote based on their trauma, circumstances, and family beliefs (opinions handed down through generations). Trying to first understand what those are, before spewing rhetoric and loud opinions, always sets the stage for a more respectful and compassionate discussion. Well done.
Hmmm, the thing I have trouble with is the conceit with which you believe you are right. You say, “But there are others who are holding on to something, maybe it’s a bit of personal trauma, or misinformation that feels right to them, something they’ve been taught to believe that they don’t know how to lay down.” Have you ever considered this might be you? Sure, let’s have respectful conversations about issues but also remain open to changing our own mind not just changing someone else’s.
This speaks to me. After taking time out from my former political life, I’ve gone from running to trouble when I see it, to trying to listen more. My views haven’t changed but I feel better. I’m naturally a person that *wonders* about things, and I was making too many assumptions about people for my own good.
If I’m up for it, my favorite way to go about it when confronted by someone who seems to be a good person w opposing views is “I’m interested in how you came to that view. “ and letting them talk.
Lots to unpack usually and I do feel like when met with love rather than fear…. It maybe invites others into what we hold most dear and important. 💙
Love that you took this time. Thankyou.
Yes! Natural curiosity is first selfless, and if you bring that into a conversation you're far more likely to be heard as well. Doing the work, girl!!
LFG!!! (she says in a whisper)
Like Leslie’s comment above this resonated with me. So many times I’ve encountered the comment, “I don’t want to talk politics”…and I’m always befuddled as to why can’t we talk politics? One of my former University of MN college professors, Bill Doherty, of Braver Angels, says it best, “I see it as my own form of duty and patriotism to help folks in our country talk to each other… when that happens then real relationships and understanding can follow.”
Exactly! You may not change minds in the moment, but you don't know how your discourse might seep back into their thoughts too. I'm all for planting the seed.
I could have written this myself! I love your arguments that allowed your new friend to really think about where her vote will go. After attempting to have a discussion on FB with the other side after the shooting in Georgia, I finally realized I was wasting my breath. I'll never change anybody's mind using social media, but I'll still try (I shared this piece). Starting now, I'll work at "whisper talking" in person with anybody who wants to chat about politics and why it's important that we vote blue. Thanks for a great article!
Thank you Stephanie! I admire you for having a civil conversation. My church recently hosted a meeting on having respectful conversations during this political season. Most of the people who attended were like-minded, but we talked about how to approach a conversation with others who are on the other side of the political spectrum. On a positive note: I recently went on a short road trip west of the Cities. During other election years there were lots of T@*&% flags and signs but this time I just saw 3! WE CAN DO THIS!!! LFG!!!
Way to go, Steph. One vote at a time.
An excellent piece, Steph! No one but Dems talk politics with me. I will try to listen and be curious and find the grace you wisely employed with your new friend!
People usually vote based on their trauma, circumstances, and family beliefs (opinions handed down through generations). Trying to first understand what those are, before spewing rhetoric and loud opinions, always sets the stage for a more respectful and compassionate discussion. Well done.
Hmmm, the thing I have trouble with is the conceit with which you believe you are right. You say, “But there are others who are holding on to something, maybe it’s a bit of personal trauma, or misinformation that feels right to them, something they’ve been taught to believe that they don’t know how to lay down.” Have you ever considered this might be you? Sure, let’s have respectful conversations about issues but also remain open to changing our own mind not just changing someone else’s.