We humans do not need to reach agreement. Good thing – since we frequently don’t.
‘Agree to disagree’ is one way we can express respect for each other when we don’t see eye-to-eye.
Respect is the open space through which kindness transmits.
Matt Kahn
I may not view things as you do, but I can still appreciate that your perspective is worthy of consideration.
Just imagine – if we could get ahold of a Harry Potter 360° 3-D telescope and focus our eye through the lens of that magical instrument. Lifting the veil on a full-blown universe of other unique perspectives!
We’d take care not to superimpose a good/bad filter too quickly, as the consequence could undermine much of what had just been brought to light.
It’s easy to forget that the whole is always greater than the sum of its parts.
Have you ever considered how granting witness to an opposing viewpoint might actually broaden your access to greater compassion?
Understanding comes to life in the realm beyond agree/disagree.
In fact, merely holding divergent views together in your line of sight expands your perspective on reality.
There’s no requirement that we dip into duality so fast – reach for a true/false conclusion prematurely. And when we do go there, we’ve traveled at the expense of potential genius.
Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I’ll meet you there.
Rumi
When we latch onto to a presumption that our way is the right way — we can wager that “my way or the highway” is sure to follow.
But what about ‘fake news’, false narratives and other untruths?
Shouldn’t we chase them out of our kitchen before they make a grab for the cookie jar?
As a thought experiment, check out what happens when you bring non-judgmental attention to a contrary view. Perhaps you’ll notice how the ‘fight energies’ within it relax and possibly even retreat.
When we genuinely offer a kind word, or a recognition – “I hear you” – the dominance games settle down and peace can be restored.
Opposition ‘feeds on’ the fight. So, when we put away our guns, there’s nothing left to eat.
Mind you, we are not asking you to agree – but merely to consider.
To experience what it feels like to leave your opposition at the door.
To sit in that space of the bigger picture for a minute or two.
With nothing to protect or defend.
Perhaps your breathing draws in more slowly and your body stretches out.
Give it a go – and let me know.
I’ll meet you on the other side of the nightmare.
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