A Call for Understanding

It is a stressful time. People are tired and less tolerant. While we have made real progress in controlling COVID, things are not all together back to the “way they were,” and folks are more anxious than ever for life to return to “normal.” I have recently heard from several of my team members that they have experienced others making assumptions and drawing conclusions about who they are or what they believe based on an innocent comment or even a “like” on a social media posting. Often, in fact, most times, these assumptions are incorrect, misguided and hurtful.

As people are on edge, stressed out and exhibiting less tolerant behavior, I want to push pause and remember that what binds us together is greater than what divides us. It is easy to get caught up in the moment and in the rhetoric and disregard compassion and kindness.

The truth is that regardless of class, color, gender identity or religious afflation, we are all human beings deserving of respect and understanding. And while we certainly have a right and the freedom to express our beliefs and opinions, I think we must remember that issues—social, political and religious—are complicated and highly nuanced. We must take time to listen to others whose opinions differ from our own.

So, I encourage you all to take a minute to reflect and, amid this crazy time, do your best to listen to others, be patient and kind and practice tolerance and understanding.