Mutual Respect

You're talking to a friend at church. The conversation turns to the Wisconsin Budget Repair Bill, and you find yourself on the other side of the river ideologically from someone you were pretty sure was "on your side." Make that the Mississippi River. At its widest point.

Some topics, like the above, draw out strong feelings. Most of us stop talking at that point, or change the subject. But is that the best way to go? And what happens if you are in a discussion group, as I was recently, and find your viewpoint washed away in a flood of differing opinions, all opposing yours?

Feelings tend to run hot, and sometimes when they do, people do not act rationally. At times like this, I think it's best to walk away until tempers cool. Other times, when the people you are with are prone to open discussion, it's good to listen. My daughter and I were discussing the Madison protests one day recently, about which we don't totally agree, when she blurted out, "It's all about a major power shift, Mom." Yes! I got clarity, all because I listened.

We've found we can discuss just about anything without even raising our voices because we have mutual respect. Mutual respect shares, but also listens. And both parties are wiser for the experience.

Respecting your thoughts, dear readers, with a listening heart,
Margaret