Don’t Say That Here

I love politics. Well, maybe less this year. But, I enjoy it.

However, not everyone can discuss politics. Many people think they can discuss politics. Very few can.

What happens is that someone starts on a political discussion. Then, someone takes offense. So, they respond with something offensive. And then it escalates from there and soon people are throwing around terms like libTARD and ReDUMBlicans. And the politics get lost in the ad hominem attacks and insults.

Some people enjoy the insults. They feel like “winning” if they insult someone else. Why? I have no idea.

But, what do you do about it? Can you talk politics?

Yes. But, it takes effort. It takes humility. Mostly it takes a willingness to honestly look at things from someone else’s point of view.

Do you think people are smart? I think people are mostly smart. I think most people in the world, and especially America are intelligent, passionate people.

We have roughly an even split in this country. There’s slightly more registered Democrats than Republicans. About 40% to 35%. The rest are a collection of fringe parties, but mostly independents.

I’m a Conservative and a registered Republican. that means that 65% of the people don’t think like I do. That’s more than 60,000,000 people. Among that group are smart people and dumb people. Funny people. Interesting people.

But, the idea that based on politics, I could suggest that sixty million people are not smart? Not at all.

And here’s the thing: if people who disagree with me are smart (and they are) they must have good reasons for what they think. Why would I not find that interesting?

Interesting? It’s fascinating. Because, I think carefully about my opinions. And if I can talk to people who will challenge my beliefs why wouldn’t I want that?

If my belief in my beliefs is so fragile that it cannot withstand someone challenging it on the internet, they can’t be very strong beliefs, can they?

So, yes, it’s possible to have political discussions. And they are valuable. But, you have to be willing to think outside of your box. And be willing to honor those with whom you disagree.

Stay safe

Rodney M Bliss is an author, columnist and IT Consultant. His blog updates every weekday. He lives in Pleasant Grove, UT with his lovely wife, thirteen children and grandchildren.

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