There are at least two sides to every story. But tragically most of us don't take the time to learn the other side.
We become comfortable with our way of looking at the world. We get lulled into apathy, forgetting the necessity of being stretched, of growing.
But we must fight against this. We must surround ourselves with people who think differently than we do. Who challenge us. We must read books from authors not in "our camp," and dialogue with those of different backgrounds.
We must educate ourselves, for education has the incredible ability to liberate us from ignorance.
We must investigate both sides of all issues - including issues between us and other people. We must seek advice from others, for it is the "fool that thinks his own way is right" (Pr 12.15).
We must especially undertake this challenge in the volatile area of religion. When a person feels God is on his or her side, there is nothing that can stop him or her. And this is scary. History testifies that religious extremism is responsible for all sorts of horrific evils.
Let us break the cycle of ignorance-fed hatred; of the US vs. THEM mentality that leads to so much destruction. And above all, let us love for there is no greater virtue (Col 3.14).
4 comments:
I imagine we'd all be a bit healthier if we actually investigated the other side. I like the idea of it, but truth be told I'm way behind books I want to read by authors I do agree with (generally), and so it's difficult to justify reading one I don't want to...
Are you saying there are no absolutes?
Charlie: thanks for your honesty. I experience the same thing!
Carrie: I absolutely believe in absolutes. This post is directed toward the complexity of issues like politics or being harmed on an interpersonal level.
It also addresses the danger of killing in the name of religion.
I totally agree, Brandon. I think a crucial first step is to "get over" ourselves. Only then can we see eye-to-eye with another; not to agree with their viewpoint, but to acknowledge their humanity. There is no harm in being considerate, only in being self-righteous.
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