I don't know that there is any person that I truly hate. I may dislike things they do or say, but I don't hate them. Hate is such a strong and ugly feeling that I try to avoid it. This entry I was asked to describe a recent conversation I had with someone who didn't share my perspective and explain how I navigated the conversation.
I walked in on this conversation at lunchtime in the teacher's room. A couple teachers were discussing the COVID-19 vaccine (an extremely hot topic at the present time). Both people had gotten the shot themselves, but one teacher, a very dear friend of mine, was encouraging others to not get it. She talked about the side effects experienced by "nearly everyone she knew who had gotten it." She listed each person who had adverse effects. All the side effects were temporary and none had lasted longer than six months. However, and I admit, some of them were miserable for a bit. As I listened and questioned the logic of her advice to others, I thought of what to say. The other teacher argued with her, and together they were creating a very unpleasant atmosphere for consuming lunches. Luckily, the bell rang and the arguing teacher returned to class. My friend continued her thoughts and then turned to ask me what I thought. I simply said, "But how many people have you talked to, who have been vaccinated, haven't experienced any side effects?" She looked at me, kind of puzzled, and said, after a brief pause, "Many, many more." End of conversation.
I don't hate people that disagree with me. I put in a lot of effort and thought to understand their perspective and experiences that have brought them to that point. The world would be pretty boring if everyone agreed with just one point. There would be no improvement and growth. I think it is important. But, man, it should would be easier.
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