One of the most difficult aspects of our society and community today, is the inability to listen to those with an opposing viewpoint. So often we find ourselves with a defensive approach before the first word let alone introduction can be made. While there may be many ideas we do not agree on, one would expect a mutual or common ground can be found if both parties are willing. 

 

In our experiences, when facts or questions have been asked the first response has been to be attacked. These attacks are based solely off of emotions and an unwillingness to even hear the reason why the question was asked in the first place. As the Holy Bible says in the book of  James.

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“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” James 1:19

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Too many of us have forgotten that we are all unique in our experiences and backgrounds. We each can bring something to the table if we are willing to listen first and speak second.