Can We Have Some Civil Dialogue, Please?

Coming back to Messiah for a presidential election year, I knew things would be crazy - but I did not anticipate how crazy it would be. Within the past month, I have been frustrated and discouraged by the polarization I have encountered on this campus. With the election still a month away, it seems that we have already retreated into our respective camps - conservatives v. liberals, Democrats v. Republicans, McCain v. Obama, us v. them. Granted, there are those who are apathetic, or those who have not yet decided for whom they're voting. But it seems that for the most part people know who they're voting for, and nothing will change their mind. Furthermore, those who think differently are "stupid", or worse, "not good Christians." With such closed-mindedness, people are totally unwilling to recognize that they might be wrong, or that other ideas might have value, too.However, at the same time, I am cynical about whether we can truly find common ground. Although both parties and both candidates appeal to certain fundamental "American" values, their interpretations of these are vastly different, and the assumptions on which they base their policies are often polar opposites. The "red" v. "blue" divide is very real and often seems unbridgeable. This divide also seems difficult to cross in our personal interactions. Whichever side we fall on, our views have been profoundly shaped by the environment in which we were raised and our unique life experiences. In addition, the deeply moral dimension that we attach to many political issues adds a passion and depth that is not easily changed.

So, no, we're not going to all agree; the whole point of politics is the interplay between opposing views, the back and forth of argumentation. But at Messiah, we do have one commonality that binds us- our Christian faith. And I think that this is crucial to remember as we approach this election season. Yes, we will argue, but can we do so civilly? Yes, we will disagree strongly, but can we still respect each other? Yes, we will take opposite views on issues, but can we do so without questioning each other's faith?

The inherent divisiveness of politics can be very destructive if we let it - with bitterness and polarization poisoning the campus atmosphere. However, it doesn't have to be that way - it's our choice. We can take this opportunity instead to see our campus fully engaged in political dialogue, with healthy debates that test each other's beliefs but have a foundation of Christian faith and mutual respect.

So be open to new ideas, even if you don't change your mind. Be prepared to defend your beliefs when you meet someone with different ones. But please do so civilly, respecting the other person rather than attacking them, and recognizing the validity of a different point of view without questioning their faith. There are sincere Christians on the Left and the Right and everywhere else on the political spectrum, and it's important for us to remember that. If we are able to cultivate this kind of atmosphere on campus, this election season can be constructive for us all and, most importantly, can bring glory to our God.