As we are poised to plunge into another bitter and divisive presidential election, it might be beneficial for each of us to examine the part we personally might be contributing to America’s exceptionally partisan climate. Change on this front will only come when each of us realize that an ideological middle ground must be found for our country to function optimally. Do you sort people by their respective Republican or Democrat label and regard them as friend or foe accordingly? Do you stop listening to someone or stop reading something when you realize your viewpoint is not being reflected?

Maybe it’s time for us to start listening to our perceived adversaries with a view to finding common ground. Do you watch only television networks whose programming affirms your stance and never let in information from the other side? We are unbelievably bad at hearing each other now and incredibly good at being small-minded enemies. It might be time for us to put party loyalty on the back burner and demonstrate loyalty to each other first in recognition of our common bond as American citizens.

Here’s a novel idea: Engage your political adversary. Ask them how they came to their beliefs so you can understand where they are coming from. It may not be the dark, sinister place you assume. There could even be an interesting story there. By exhibiting a genuine curiosity of others, it’s just possible we can start down the path to the middle ground and begin to repair our connections with each other.

Just maybe if we have the courage to “tear down this wall” which we have built between us and our neighbor, we can finally experience “hope and change.”

 

Karen Kenyon

Waterville

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