This holiday season, let’s practice civil discourse, not civil war

This recent election cycle has resulted in a common sentiment that our country is divided. I disagree; I think it shows that we are balanced. While the chasm between both ends of the spectrum is huge, the majority of Americans fall closer to the middle than they realize.

When is the last time you spoke with someone who holds different views? Do you avoid people when you know they don’t share the same values?

With the holiday season here, it is an unspoken rule to not speak politics at the table. If you don’t want a plate of mashed potatoes thrown at you, then maybe you should talk about sports instead. But wait, that has become a platform for political statements. Maybe you should discuss your kids in school?  Nope, that is political now too. Health and well-being? Forget about it!

See my point? Whether we like it or not, politics touches everything.

Freedom of speech is a vital right that we must protect. It is the bedrock of a truly free society. What does that look like in an age of cancel culture, political correctness, trigger warnings, safe spaces and micro-aggressions?

I suggest that perhaps that while the intent of not wanting to offend someone is a good thing, perhaps we are creating division by avoiding triggering topics. Maybe instead of reconsidering the topics, we should reconsider the approach.

We have lost the ability in this country to have civil discourse. We have huge hurdles that our nation is currently facing. We will not bring resolution unless we develop the ability to listen to each other.

What is civil discourse? Last year, I attended a workshop on Facilitating Complex Conversations. They discussed Four Pillars of Civil Discourse. I have found these pillars helpful.

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