28 October 2024

“There are three things that I’ve learned never to discuss with people: religion, politics and the Great Pumpkin.”

— Linus, “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown”

Have you been avoiding that discussion for years? No, not the one about the Great Pumpkin. It's politics [often with a dash of religion sprinkled in]. Yes, me too! It's difficult to have conversations with people who may not agree with you, especially if you assume (as we always do) that YOU are right and THEY are wrong.

I know the best way to influence others is to connect with them; after all, I'm an enthusiastic Hidden Brain listener! And even before I heard of Hidden Brain (and despite being very shy in my youth), my sense of both curiosity and respect has meant appreciating other's perspectives and values. But a sermon I heard on Yom Kippur inspired me to look more deeply at my own identity and way of experiencing the world.

The world is not perfect and “going to our corner” is not going to make it so. We have to bravely face reality and work together for everyone's benefit. I believe we all share many of the same ideals. We may disagree on what is effective or fair, but that doesn't mean we always have to “pick a team”.  The media would have us believe a compromise would be out of the question. But without discussion, finding the best solution is impossible. When did it become scary to disagree? Civil disagreement can yield excellent ideas!

Anyone who tells you they know the one best answer for healthy diet, the economy or global warming is just not smart enough to realize they could be wrong. Be curious. Find common interests, goals and values with your neighbors - even if they're rooting for a different candidate!

And eat more plants (they make us happy)!