Forum Post: Please let's not go about this in a self-defeating way....

I don't think it's a waste of time to engage in discussion with people who are "on the other side". By talking to the people who disagree with us we have an opportunity to change their minds and their hearts and that is a very important thing. Even if it isn't initially noticeable, simply by engaging in conversation with these people we will be making progress. If we can respond positively and without aggression to people who disagree with us, we will have made an impression and perhaps that will aid in a change in their perspective over time. By making this or that group into "bad" people, we're really doing ourselves a disservice ultimately. We all are interconnected even if the way in which we are connected is not completely apparent. The only way to change people's minds and hearts is to keep talking to them and be respectful and logical while doing so.

I totally understand the frustration that comes from trying to communicate with someone who is presenting a different message aggressively and with hate. I realize it is very difficult to have a discussion with someone who is coming at you in a negative way. But keep that in mind when you talk to others... people won't hear the message if it's presented in a negative way with name-calling or belittling. If other people want to waste their energy by being hateful then that is their problem, I feel it is our duty to respond respectfully in all instances and continue to drive home our message and raise awareness. Let's take some of the emotionality out of it, stick to logic and facts, and not become over-reactive when discussing things with anyone. Talking to others about ideas is very important no matter how they seem to respond. Just hearning a different view can open someone's mind even when they are being close-minded. Additionally, here are some other things you can do personally to affect positive change:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cXdmNFNqaQc