A Difference of Opinion

I read a lot of Yahoo stories, which include many, opinion pieces ranging from personal to cultural and political. These stories lead with bold and triggering headlines aimed to provoke an emotional response from the reader. The stories always center around divisive topics in an effort to create and sustain chaos. After reading many of these stories, sometimes I even become triggered. I find that only one side of the topic, conversation, or story is allowed to be heard and corroborated as right and just. The side with the opposing view on the subject matter is labeled an offender, a bigot- merely for having a difference of opinion.

Although we may not agree with another person’s opinion, they are allowed to think and believe whatever they want. It is not my job or your job to force them to see the world the way you do, nor is it ever appropriate to judge, harass, threaten, or harm them for a difference of opinion. The personal comments on stories I read are so quick to attack the opposing view in some warped, self-proclaimed righteous mindset- as if doing a service to mankind. The people that engage in this type of behavior don’t see the irony that they become the bigot that they think they are fighting against. We all should be able to share our opinions in a dignified, polite way with respect and without fear. It’s unfortunate to encounter such anger and hatred from expressing opinions that stray from those heavily pushed in the current climate.

When encountering someone with a different opinion from your own, be kind. Everyone is living an entirely different experience that shapes their own world view. We are not privy to the intricate details of the personal lives of others nor should we consider our opinion superior to their opinion, even if held in popular belief. Their opinion does not invalidate your opinion. Both opinions can exist in mutual harmony at the same time without interference. If you feel so inclined to respectfully disagree, don’t be so quick to attack them to prove your point. Those who forcefully push their opinions with derogatory comments lose any sensibility, and often credibility, they may have had otherwise. Sometimes an opinion can exist without a reaction or response, as it’s not required. When people feel the need to respond, it’s because that opinion resonates with them in a triggering way. When we are kind to those who opine different than us, it speaks volumes about us and the way we expect to be treated in return.

Below are a few questions to consider when rectifying a difference of opinion. These questions are aimed to induce self-reflection that will prepare you to handle a difference of opinion in a kind, mature, and dignified way.

Ask Yourself

• Does this opinion impact me personally in MY direct experience?

• Does my opinion need to be heard on this matter? If so, why?

• How do I know my opinion is the right opinion for someone else when I am not them and don’t live their experience?

• Am I sharing a difference in opinion to open a healthy discussion or is it to attack someone who disagrees with me?

• Is my opinion free from harsh judgment and expressed in a respectful way?

• Do I feel good about the way I am sharing my opinion? Would I be ok if they shared their opinion like that with me?

• Can I look beyond the difference of opinion and understand they have a right to believe whatever they want?

• Can I abstain from derogatory remarks even if triggered?

• Can I abstain from providing an opinion if it’s not required and unnecessary?

We all deserve to be seen and heard. Choose to be seen and heard with grace.

-Jaclyn