Rural Issues: A difference of opinion is good

For most of my life, I have heard that you should not discuss politics, religion or money with friends and family. Apparently, some people are incapable of discussing these topics without fighting or getting their feelings hurt.

I am not one of those people.

Several reasons have been given as to why you should not discuss politics, religion or money with friends and family. Conflict avoidance, relationship preservation and maintaining boundaries are a few of those suggested reasons for staying silent.

Certainly, these topics can be deeply personal, and many people hold strong beliefs and opinions on them. If you cannot engage in an honest and open discussion about controversial topics with those you love, trust and respect, how will you survive in the real world?

From the time I was a child, I clearly remember discussions over the kitchen table about politics, religion and money. Sometimes those conversations led to a healthy debate.

I listened. My curiosity was piqued, and I was encouraged to asked questions. I learned. I was inspired to learn more and respect differences.

Not everyone in my family or in my diverse groups of friends holds the same beliefs and values. They have not all had the same experiences to shape their personal convictions.

And yet we are capable of discussion, sometimes agreeing and sometimes disagreeing. We can walk away from the discussion more committed to our original belief on a topic, or with a somewhat different view than when we started.

We live in a world where many people are spending more time on social media, posting selfies and memes, and believing everything they read or view on Facebook, X and TikTok.

It is easy to become enraged and express strong opinions and tapping “block” on your screen if someone disagrees with you or your political, religious, or financial philosophies.

We are told it is best to focus on common ground, avoid divisive subjects and focus only on shared interests, hobbies and positive aspects of the relationship with those with whom you are engaged. Otherwise, you risk straining your friendships and bond with members of your family.

Oh, please. If you are never challenged, discouraged, encouraged, or bombarded with differing viewpoints, how will you grow intellectually?

How will you develop effective communications and active listening skills? How will you learn to engage constructively with differing viewpoints?

How will you learn it is acceptable to have your own viewpoint and not yield to other’s preferences? How will you find your voice?

Those of you who know me personally know that I am unlikely to go looking for a fight. However, I am fearless when it comes to expressing an opinion or personal conviction that lacks majority support.

I prefer fact-based opinion, which usually comes down to personal interpretation of said facts.

Norman Vincent Peale, a clergyman and author, is credited with saying, “The trouble with most of us is that we would rather be ruined by praise than saved by criticism.”

There is nothing wrong with having and expressing your passion when it comes to politics, religion and money. Even when you are wrong.