Unmasking the Truth – Second Question

(Skip to “The Second Question” if you read question one already)

Having broached the topic of masks, I want to encourage dialogue between the polarities of the debate. This is challenging given the political climate of uncivil discord rather than civil discourse.  With a vision of communities coming together to collectively find the truth and decide on policy, I offer a series of questions.  I don’t want to give answers, but questions that re-teach all of us to engage in discourse which will lead us to that vision.  Somewhere between the polar extremes, we will find the truth that we all need.

Therefore, let’s unmask the truth whether it leads to “masks or no masks”, “mandates or no mandates”, and more.

 

 

The Second Question…

              Imagine yourself confronted by someone who expresses an opinion contrary to yours.  It could be on social media, in line at the grocery store, in a town hall meeting, a family gathering, or anywhere.  Your first impulse is to blast away and to throw your best at them. This happens from both sides of the debate.

         Ask yourself and them “why are you saying that?”.  Think more from the emotional standpoint this time. The first question was about content.  This question is more underneath concerning why this is important enough for them to express an opinion.   If you can’t determine this question on your own, ask them why this issue is important.  Knowing this will help you respond more calmly and build a bridge rather than throw grenades.

         If you are on social media, take a moment to ask this question as well. It may either build a bridge or flush out the belligerent who don’t want real dialogue.