An educated and respectful discussion about the elephant in the room

Our country is severely divided, and just like our Civil War, one side cannot seem to talk to the other side about it. This led to the bloodiest war in our country's history, and it was Americans against Americans. Today we are just as divided over BIG issues, but our weapons do not need to be lethal. We just need to start discussing the issues with each other again. Not just with the people that share our views, where it is safe and comfortable, but out there on the front lines. Sure, things get heated, but words are better than guns and bombs, and as long as we can remember that we are all Americans, and all care about our nation a lot, maybe we can refrain from physical conflict and start listening to each other a little more, and not to the equally divided media and political pundits. Because they, like lawyers on each side of a divorce case, pit us against each other for their own personal gain.

Maybe if we start talking to everyone about the problems this country faces, the lies will start to be exposed, and the truth will prevail. Now I know bringing up politics at the wrong venue can raise blood pressure and ruin a good family reunion, or light social gathering. So there is a time and place to hear each others arguments. I was reluctant to talk about politics once myself. I did not see the value in discussion as much as I saw the work it took to have it and not wanting to ruffle any feathers. That all changed when George W. Bush was re-elected to office in 2004. That was the year I knew I needed to get involved and be more pro-active. As far as I am concerned, if I hear someone discussing the points of a hotbed issue, or political subject, anywhere, game on!

Social networks are perfect for dispute if you refrain from threats, name calling and swear words, and stick to the discussion of the facts, what you have read, or heard, or just believe is true. A person will quickly realize the fallacies in a debate if they educate themselves on the subject, and can remain open minded and respectful about everyone's opinion. Being able to admit you are not always right is a valuable virtue also.