I don't agree....

I attended a small liberal very inclusive private high school in Nashville TN. Soon we're having our 50th reunion. Recently one of my classmates sent around a message asking if everyone could refrain from mentioning politics — several other classmates seconded the motion. After some thought, this is what I wrote:

What is everyone so afraid of? That people might disagree? That there might be heated discussions? Are we really choosing to censor ourselves? Is that the only way we can come together?

I wonder if it's really worth coming together if we’re just going to put on smiley faces and pretend like the world’s the same as it was 50 years ago when we graduated and that we’re the same too.

To me it would be a nightmare to think that I haven’t changed in all that time. As for the world, it’s clearly changed a lot. And who’s paying attention, if not us?

Recently I went to see the film about James Baldwin “I Am Not Your Negro” . In it, he states: Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.

I know this isn’t a political rally or a march — it’s a class reunion. But it’s going to be hard for me to tell the part of me — the big part — that cares what’s happening in the world to stay home, cause it’s not welcome at this party.

And I know I live one of those "bubbles" where I don’t disagree with anyone because, politically, 90% of the people think the same way. So if I’m ever going to speak to people who don’t agree with me, it’s in Nashville among friends or former classmates who may have a different point of view. So bring it on!!

I’d be interested in a discussion of your point of view. And I’m certainly not going to hold back. 

What was the use of going to a great high school like ours if we didn’t learn to co-exist with a whole range of people? Some who share our values; some who don't…Yet we need to be willing to be in the room together. And completely present – not just the polite, inconsequential parts of our selves.

What’s the worst that could happen? We get into a big brawl on the dance floor? At least we’d know we are still alive. And that’s saying a lot for a 50th reunion!!

rz