Contributed by Josh Fryfogle
I recently had a two-hour conversation about politics and religion with Bill Aube, and it was civil and respectful. More importantly, it was edifying.
Bill would describe himself as a capitalist who believes in socialism for the people that inevitably lose in a capitalist society.
I would describe myself as an individualist with libertarian leanings. We left our meeting with a deeper understanding of each other’s heart for community.
Meanwhile, the Democrats and Republicans were holding their conventions, making war plans, perpetuating (in my opinion) the problems that seem to subvert common decency and neighborly kindness.
Real people can communicate their differences without the ad hominem attacks and vitriolic arguments that the two-party system is currently dogmatizing at their respective gatherings; to keep us apart, so that we will support their subversion of the civic process. (That’s my opinion, not necessarily Bill’s.)
I really appreciate Bill reaching out to me, inviting me to the table to discuss his concerns, and his reasons for concern. We found common ground in our mutual faith in something greater than our selves.
Of course, how we serve the greater good is the question. But we should not judge each other’s actions without also seeking to understand our motives. Bill and I agree on more than we disagree on, and our motives for our disagreement are not based in any moral failing on either of our parts. Precisely the opposite, we are both driven by our desire to see our community flourish and be healthy.
Thanks for initiating this meeting, Bill. I’m glad to call you a neighbor.
