I typically stay away from anything of a political nature when it comes to this blog, however, comments by several people who see me for spiritual direction has brought this topic to the fore in recent months. Their remarks follow a similar pattern:

“As a Christian, what do I do when I’m around people who state their perspective, often with contempt for anyone with a different point of view?”

Which is often followed by: “I’d like to say something to bring some balance. On the other hand, if I do that people just get more irritated and angry.”

Sadly, the vitriol and sometimes physical violence that follows has spilled into the sports arena, the local diner, the church parking lot, and the grocery store. It’s enough to make us wonder when and how did we lose our good common sense or the desire to treat others with love and respect.

The problem is further exacerbated when we are so convinced our perspective is, hands down, the best one, the smartest one, the only one. And some of us don’t hesitate to add fuel to fire by invoking the name of Jesus in the process.

I’m not about to suggest I have the solution to the divisiveness that has permeated our culture. I am, however, willing to toss an idea in the ring [not a new one at that] for your prayerful consideration. If this simple concept makes a positive difference in more peaceful, loving relationships in only one small family, one workplace, or one religious gathering, that would be a blessing beyond description.

Let’s call this suggestion 1-2-1. Or One-to-One.

Here’s how it would work:

What if each one of us, wherever we live, work, socialize, or worship, were to intentionally seek out one other person as different from us as we could possibly find.

Scary thought, eh? Different. Not like me. Different political leanings. Different skin color. Different accent. Different attire. Different mannerisms. Different language.

There a multitude of ways we could put this idea into practice. A few of many possibilities:

  • Smile and ask the person standing between you and the milk and eggs how their day is going.
  •  Back your vehicle away from the only convenient parking spot and motion the other driver in.
  • When someone says “you don’t understand,” take their word for it and give them time to talk—without throwing out unwanted advice—so you will have a better sense of their reality.
  • Help create a safe environment for those in your social or family groups by refusing to judge, criticize, belittle, or condemn a person when they are brave enough to share why they have chosen a particular perspective.
  • Be alert to the use of humor [or thinly-veiled sarcasm] as a way to make people feel devalued.

When our leaders—of any political or ethnic persuasion–act and behave in ways that set a poor example, especially for the younger among us, all of us suffer the ugly fallout. Who among us doesn’t believe we could do better, if for no other reason than to be kind and compassionate does not mean we have to sacrifice God’s truth in the process?

How do I feel when conversation become heated and mean-spirited?

Am I able to listen well to those different from me?

Who is the one person I might connect with to better understand their issues, their concerns?