Jim_Just_Jim ,

I have not seen that, but I don't think I agree with it. But maybe I'm misinterpreting the image because I'm admittedly feeling a bit defensive?

So that I can better understand, I ask a completely innocent question. Do you perceive my comment as encouraging people to tolerate intolerance?

For some clarification, I put "far" in parenthesis because I feel the term "far", in this age of "outrage culture" is relative and influenced largely by propaganda, social media, and rhetoric. Additionally, the term "shun" means to keep away from or take pains to avoid.

These people should not be shunned. You can and absolutely should have a conversation with someone you perceive as intolerant. Because I feel the term "far" is relative these days, I believe we are often quick to label people based on their emotional expressions, short sighted social media posts, or impulsive comments. So if you find yourself suspecting that someone is intolerant, I would encourage you to have a conversation. If your conversation further confirms that someone is expressing intolerant beliefs, you owe it to yourself and the other party to respectfully challenge them and express your interpretation of their perspective.

My personal experience is that if you are fortunate enough to find yourself engaging with someone open to debate, you should stand fast on your perspective. If you can respect each other, the words you speak are more likely to resonate. If you disrespect the opposing party, then you will almost certainly be dismissed, no matter how morally right you are, or perceive yourself to be. The other person will almost certainly see your disrespect as some sort of confirmation of their own perspective.

Seeking common ground puts you in a position to build trust and credibility, so that you can offer an alternate perspective as an ally and without being dismissed as an opponent. Don't avoid. Engage and change. If you ignore a weed, it continues to grow and pollinate. It must be effectively uprooted.

Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.

Edit: I am observing a trend of down voting this without further engagement. That's unfortunate. I would love to hear other's opinions. I'm honestly not a hater or troll, and do love to hear opposing opinions! Use your voice to share your thoughts!

  • All
  • Subscribed
  • Moderated
  • Favorites
  • [email protected]
  • kbinchat
  • All magazines