When we find people we can respect while respectfully disagreeing with them, we grow. We grow because rather than taking offence at their views or thinking negatively about them as people, they help us challenge our own beliefs simply because they’re different.
Difference is important. Difference creates challenge. Challenge is what powers the world.
“To fly we have to have resistance.”
Maya Lin
Without difference, without resistance, without challenge, nothing changes. Not individuals, not organisations, not countries. Only through opposition does anything shift.
Once we open up and take in opposing views one of two things happens: we change our mind, or we understand our own views better.
I subscribe to Seth Godin’s blog because I respect him and love his writing. But I also disagree with him often. When one of his posts lands in my inbox and I disagree with it, it makes me stop and ask myself not just why I disagree with it but what I actually believe (and why).
When we find people who challenge us our thoughts, views and beliefs clarify in a way that helps us grow and move forward.
I hope you disagree.