Differences

It’s okay to disagree with people but remain friends. Not only is it okay, it’s preferable. It’s a sign of maturity. It’s a sign of wisdom. It’s a sign of civility.

            Friendships should never be abandoned because of political disagreement (one) or disagreements (many.)

            I have a great deal of respect for people who have convictions, regardless of whether they match mine. I have a more difficult time understanding people who are apathetic, people who just don’t care. I’d much rather have a conversation with someone who has strong views on an issue than with someone who has no interest.

            Maybe we teach when we share our beliefs. Maybe we learn when we listen to the opinions of others.

            Thomas Jefferson once said, “We disagree, but if we do, we disagree as rational friends.” Abraham Lincoln had a similar view but in reverse: “I destroy my enemies when I make them my friends.”      

            Joe Biden spoke at Strom Thurmond’s funeral. They were great friends who rarely agreed on major issues.

            Maybe you’ve heard that saying – “Love your neighbor.” That’s always, not just when we agree.

Lincoln, Winston Churchill, and others spoke or wrote of the concept that “united we stand, divided we fall.” Especially this year, as we celebrate our 250^th birthday as a nation, we should be united in thanksgiving for the freedoms we have: the freedom to speak out, the freedom to worship as we please – even the freedom to disagree.