The worst part of election years is they further cause divisions among people, communities, and even families along ideological/political lines.

Once the ballots have been cast, the winners and losers revealed, some celebrate while others mourn. Some jump onto social media to brag about their chosen candidates’ win while others lament over their chosen candidates’ loss.

Unfortunately none of it heals all the division.

Now I’m not going to say people shouldn’t celebrate or mourn. They absolutely have that right.

My hope is that once we let it all out, we can stop for a moment and consider.

I’m not going to throw out platitudes such as, “Let’s unite,” or “let’s find ways to compromise.” Because, let’s be honest. Some things are uncompromisable. On any side. It’s perfectly fine to stick to our ideals. In fact, I have more respect for someone who will never compromise on their beliefs.

Yes, even when I think they’re wrong.

I extend that respect, because I want others to respect the fact that I, too, will not waiver on certain beliefs. When respect is at least offered on both sides, only then can dialogue truly begin. It’s not about winning or losing arguments, but about learning from one another and searching for even a smidgeon of common ground.

So, yes, while I think people shouldn’t feel the need to compromise on certain issues or beliefs, we should also be humble enough to think, “What if I’m wrong?” And to listen and consider the opposition’s views and ask, “What if they’re right?”

At the same time, it’s perfectly fine to not change our minds even after we consider and study other points of view.

As long as we never consider them our enemy worthy of destruction. One exception to that is if they’re the ones seeking our destruction. Not only should we not compromise, but we should stand and fight against it.

In short, peace is preferred, but war is always an option.

Huh. I did not expect this entry to end with fighting wars. I was hoping instead to offer only peace and reconciliation. I guess some things are indeed irreconcilable and some wars inevitable.