So I don't want to start any kind of debate here but I find it increasingly difficult to sit and listen to people go off on a tangent that is disrespectful to another point of view be it religious, cultural, sectarian, racist or even political. Sure tolerance means that we listen to what everyone has to say, but then other people need to be vigilant too, of what it is that's coming out their mouths. Do they purposely say things to jab or hurt another party? Are they trying to get a reaction out of them? Will any good come of this? Why can't they just agree to disagree?
Sure, sometimes, curiosity gets the better of me, and I like to read up on, or ask questions about beliefs that vary from my own. After all, what I believe too was taught to me. I wasn't born with that point of view, but I was moulded to see things in that light. I'm open to the possibility that perhaps how I see the world is faulty, maybe another opinion makes more sense. However, for me to learn, I need to keep an open mind, and being defensive about other people saying things otherwise will only make me dogmatic and in a way, illiterate.
I pray to God to give me patience and tolerance so that I can hear everything without being infuriated and without letting it get to me. And I ask God to keep me strong so that I cannot be brainwashed or easily misguided. And most of all I pray to God to surround me with people who, though may challenge my opinions and beliefs, are respectful, and accepting of me as I am.
Life is short... let's coexist in peace and harmony with each other, and learn along the way. Let's laugh and sing and be happy. Let's LIVE.
[caption id="attachment_71" align="aligncenter" width="430"] lack of tolerance is the root cause of all evil?[/caption]
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