Threatened

This is a continuation of my last entry (“Gray”). 

In mutually-respecting company, I’m a convicted believer and forthright communicator of my beliefs. Intelligent and respectful conversations and debates help me learn where my beliefs have holes. 

Everyone operates from their own experiences, susceptibility to cultural influence, and intellect. I believe most people do not wake up in the morning committing their day to spew what they believe are falsehoods. If they do oppose their intuitive truths, the motive is probably altruistic or selfish.

My intention is not to communicate an acceptance of poor behavior—especially actions that hurt others. Many beliefs hurt people. Many beliefs I’ve ascribed to in the past hurt people. I’d be ignorant to think I don’t still function with beliefs that hurt people. 

Trauma (especially trauma that’s not dealt with) tends to play out in ways that hurt people. To say it in a way that has become a little cliché (although true), people who are themselves hurting end up hurting other people. I’m interested in kindly listening and learning about the hurt, fears, and experiences that build others’ foundation of their beliefs.

I believe, at the deepest genesis of their actions, everyone wants to make the world better. Some want it better for others. Some want it better for themselves. Most people want an ideal mix of both.

Religious activists want people’s live to be the best they can be.
Political activists want the world to be the best place it can be.
Nations want the best for their communities: now and in the future.
Cult followers want the world to know a truth they believe they’ve discovered.
Conspiracy theorists want to share what they believe are hidden truths.
YouTubers want followers.
Coffee shops make the world a better place. 
I got off topic.

I AM threatened if I FEEL threatened by someone else’s opinion.

If the stability of my perspective is threatened by another person’s view of it, I need to look inward. I don’t have to agree with someone else any more than their beliefs are a threat to me. If I feel defensive, I should stop defending and listen. If I’m offended, I should stop trying to return the offense and learn.

I don’t have the answers, but I can’t remember a time my bigotry did anything good for me or anyone else around me. The moment I close myself to learning from someone in order to “win,” I lose.