Today is Election Day in the United States, a day when we are each called to exercise our right to vote and celebrate democracy. It’s a day that can evoke strong emotions, stir debates, and, unfortunately, deepen the divides that already exist. We’re living in challenging times, and it’s clear that our society is more polarized than ever before. With all this polarization as the backdrop, you can appreciate why I was so relieved to crack open a fortune cookie to find a timeless truth scrawled across the tiny paper within: “Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.”
In the political climate we find ourselves in, it may seem like the only way forward is to change minds, to convince others of our point of view. While it’s essential to have informed, passionate deliberations, we also need to realize that not everyone will see things the way we do. What we can do, though, is strive to understand one another better and learn from these interactions to improve our own understanding.
Understanding doesn’t mean agreeing or compromising your values. It means taking the time to listen, to ask questions, and to see the humanity in the people you may disagree with. It means acknowledging that we’re all shaped by our experiences, upbringing, and beliefs. When we take this approach, we often discover that there is more that unites us than divides us.
One of the fundamental principles of Coffee Lunch Coffee is the idea that networking is about finding common ground and building relationships, and this principle is equally applicable to the political sphere. When you engage in conversations with people who have different viewpoints, you’ll often find that common ground can be the starting point for a meaningful connection.
Consider the following tips for engaging in constructive conversations, especially during divisive times:
- Practice active listening. Truly listen to what the other person is saying. Avoid formulating your response while they are talking. Give them the courtesy of your full attention.
- Ask open-ended questions. Encourage meaningful dialogue by asking questions that prompt reflection and expand the conversation.
- Find shared values. Identify values and goals that you both care about. Recognizing common ground can be a powerful tool for building bridges.
- Stay open-minded. Be willing to learn from others, even if you disagree with them. Remember that understanding their perspective can enhance your own knowledge and empathy.
- Seek compromise when possible. While you may not agree on everything, finding areas where you can compromise can lead to progress and change.
- Respect differences. Acknowledge that we are a diverse society with a wide range of beliefs and backgrounds. Embrace this diversity and the richness it brings to our nation.
In a world where it’s easy to get lost in the noise of disagreement, we must remember that life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Instead, let’s use our time wisely, seeking understanding and fostering unity. As we head to the polls and participate in our democracy, let’s remember that our shared future depends on our ability to work together, to listen, and to find common ground. It’s in these moments of unity and understanding that we can truly make progress and build a more perfect union.
Today, as we exercise our right to vote, let’s also exercise our capacity for empathy and dialogue. By doing so, we can collectively move forward, bridging the divides that challenge us and embracing a brighter, more united future. Life is too short to waste on hatred; let’s invest our time in building bridges and fostering understanding.
Go Vote! Happy Networking!
P.S. – An organization that I am deeply passionate about, American Public Square at Jewell, seeks to convene non-like-minded people to improve the tone and quality of civil discourse and find actionable paths toward common ground. They do this by bringing together people from multiple sides of any given issue to engage in dialogue. You should check ‘em out! Most of their programming is free and open to the public. While many of the events take place in the Kansas City Metropolitan Area, most of the programs are also livestreamed – or at least filmed for on-demand replay. Additionally, there are a number of organizations like American Public Square – find one in your community and get involved!