I realize everyone wants to move on and away from this topic----but I just CAN'T resist one more observation.......
Not JUST with regard to our most recent conflict but also with regard to many that have blown up around here....disagreeing with someone is not "fighting". Everyone wants to say---"I don't like fighting" or "I don't want to fight".
When we comment or feel differently from one another it is not fighting.
It's debate---- which when conducted correctly has nothing to do with fighting. It is expressing and defending a particular stand or opinion in a manner that lays out the facts of your "side" and explains your logic and reasons for reaching your conclusion.
It is nothing to fear
It should never make enemies
It stretches your intellect to have to think through WHY you feel a certain way
My very best friend (here in three dimensional world) and I often disagree on many, many points----and we love each other. We will go for breakfast and still be in the restaurant at lunch time debating and arguing points. It's energizing!
I think part of the problems that ensue these days is that people are not taught debate or really any way to logically examine their opinion on something. They also are not taught that others can have different opinions and not be a threat to you.
In this great "age of diversity"----I think we are much LESS able to entertain the opposite opinion. People also don't seem to be able to change their opinion nor do they seem able to say I'm sorry.
My Dad taught me calm, rational debate. He also taught me to think and feel free to change my opinion if the other side's argument made more sense.
My Mom taught me that "if you can't make a mistake---you can't make anything. Apologize when you do...be sincere...move on."
And now---I will.
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