*Participate in a conversation with someone who shares the opposite view on a controversial topic. As this person states his or her conclusions and premises, pay close attention to your feelings. Do you feel a sense of anger rising as someone backs his or her view? Do you then have thoughts that this person’s reasons or premises are not accurate? At that point, do you form an opinion that this person does not know what he or she is talking about? If you do these things, then you are acting like 99% of our society! You’re normal!!! We’re going to change that. We’re going to work on making you abnormal! 

 
 
Answer these questions:

Our emotions really influence our thoughts. When we feel threatened, defense mechanisms kick in that help us discount another person and reinforce our own views. Ask yourself, “Why do I feel angry when someone disagrees with me?” If I’m a Republican, why do Democrats aggravate me? If I am Christian, why do I get angry at those who are Muslim or Jewish? 

Your challenge for the week is to engage in a conversation with someone who has an opposing religious, political, family, or societal view. Try to understand that person’s point of view. See if you can actively respect his or her opinion. It does not mean you have to change your own. It means you listen with understanding and respect. See if you can share opposing views without anger or without deciding your opponent is inferior. Tell us what happened! 

Journal references