What an appropriate quote for the current state in our country.
It is so important to ensure our teens (and us) have strong convictions but that they also are open to others opinions. There are millions of us living in this country and none of us have all the answers or hold all the truths.
Misinformation and propaganda is rampant and unfortunately quite effective. We have belief systems that we develop as we grow based on external experiences and the climate we grow up in. These are our belief systems and we are entitled to them. They are not right or wrong, it is just what we believe.
Naturally someone who grows up with diametrically opposed belief systems will think differently from you. Does it mean they are wrong? What makes your belief system right and theirs wrong.
This is where the problem lies. We are so driven by what we hear in the media or what is shown to us as truth depending on where you tune in that we start to view opposing views as wrong and a different reality.
The truth is, take away those views and strip us down to the human beings we are, who all need air to breathe and love to live, and we are all really quite the same.
There is no room for hate, bigotry, racism, anti-semitism or any form of religious or ethnic persecution. The best way to deal with those people who spew it is to not give them a voice.
These are not the belief systems I am referring to!
When we ignore them and not give them the attention they want, they have no power. Again, the media has given such a voice to them, that they have been able to infect others with these hurtful and fake belief systems.
Most people, just want to live their lives and enjoy the freedoms and beliefs that they have.
So next time you meet someone who does not share your views or belief systems, understand that they may not be 100% accurate in what they think or in the information that supports what they believe, but neither do you.
When we can learn to keep our beliefs to ourselves and not push them onto each other, we will all be able to co exist and share the air and love which will bring peace and calm.
If we can ensure our teens learn this lesson, we will be well on our way to repairing what is currently broken.
#teens #love #coexistence