a storm's a brewin'

When I got on Facebook the other day, I couldn't figure out why everyone was suddenly arguing again about marriage equality again. That gives you an idea of how often I turn on the news (never). I can see people gathering up their ammo, ready to fight. Lines are being drawn, and those who don't agree are seen as "the enemy".

I'm not going to use this blog to preach at anyone or make some massive stand.



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But I do have something to say.

Holding to your convictions does not mean you lose the ability to be compassionate. I think it's safe to say that about 75% of my friends have pretty liberal leanings. I think it's also safe to say that, if you know me at all, you'd know that I'm mostly conservative. I don't make any apologies for where I stand on issues. But I also don't beat people over the head with my way of thinking. I don't name call, bash, or belittle others with a different opinion.
(Just a tip: if you really want to change someone's perspective? I don't recommend any of the above methods... they never work.)

Like I said, a massive chunk of my friends are pretty liberal. I majored in Sociology, a very liberal field. I almost minored in Women's Studies, another mostly-liberal field. If you want your views tested, I recommend hanging out with hundreds of people who don't agree with what you believe. But here's the real test... don't say anything. It's kind of like being a spy. :) I've had people talk to me, thinking I'm also very liberal, and say what they really think. I went to the beach with a transgendered person (and this wasn't some big group... there were like 5 or 6 of us). He was one of the sweetest, coolest people I'd ever met.

So my personal opinions and convictions have zero to do with ignorance or hate. I've heard what they have to say, and I also love them. I've never ever ever had anyone accuse me of being hateful, even when they find out I don't really agree with their views. Want to know why?

Because I listen. I understand. I really, really do. Sometimes all people need is for you to acknowledge them. Acknowledge their feelings, their opinions, and frankly, their existence. Make them feel loved instead of attacked. Honestly, I hate confrontation. I will avoid it at all costs. But really, sometimes we get so caught up in making a point, that we forget there are people at the other end of that point. Actual people. With real feelings, hurts, struggles, and life experiences. Just because they are different from you doesn't mean they deserve to feel like less of a human. Even if they attack my views, it still doesn't give me the right to be ugly in return. You can disagree with someone's opinions or life choices and still show them love.

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And I feel this goes both ways. If you are on the liberal side of things, don't use maliciousness as your weapon. Don't assume that everyone who is religious in any way automatically hates you or is totally ignorant. It's just not the case.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that before you fire that ammo, think about the people you're firing it at. Realize that the Supreme Court most likely isn't basing their decisions on Facebook arguments and memes. God is ultimately in control of everything, and we have to remember that. If you really feel the need to make a point or argue your position, do your best to listen to the other side, no matter how off-base you think they are. And if they still don't agree or budge? Love them anyway.

 



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Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22: 37-40