Ronald Regan made this comment in 1980 about demonstrators who were protesting his agenda in the race for the White House. How many times in history has this been the root cause of why things don't get done, why things don't change, why gridlock is maintained? How many times in our personal relationships is this the root cause of discord, arguments, resentment and eventually dissolution of those relationships?
It's not about democrat or republican, rich or poor, Christian or Muslim, it's about being human. Respecting others because we're human and giving each person a chance to make their statement, speak their voice, and give them credit for having the same faculties we are so sure that we possess. Of course, the instinct is to automatically defend your personal point of view, but what is the harm in listening, pondering, even considering that someone else may have a different point of view that, not only could be a valid option, but could be a better option?
I realize this is an idealistic point of view, perhaps in line with others who have believed that a utopian society can be obtained. I don't believe in a utopian society - that is what heaven will be; perfection - but I do believe in a better society. If we could look past ourselves, truly humble ourselves, then we could see that we are all humans with the same goals. Food, shelter, peace, safety, love and freedom. Are these ideals really too unobtainable? For all our advances, knowledge, history, and wisdom, we're still treating each other like 2 year olds who don't want to share a toy. "It's mine!" "No, it's mine!" "Give me that!" "MOM!!" Haven't we grown past that phase? Can't we move past that phase? Please?
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