Ability to Dialog

It should be no surprise to you when I suggest that  our nation is strongly polarized Right and Left.

Many might be surprised that I suggest this rift might often be needless.

Many principals articulated well and discussed with open minds will find areas we can all agree on. 

Most issues are complicated and have many facets. In the majority of cases we can find some things that we can agree on. Some say that what we usually call "no brainers" are often "brainers" when we really look at them carefully. 

We should examine both the pros and cons of an issue. Is the issue really important? Is it in my interest to debate this issue. 

What is the most effective manner to initiate dialog on an issue.

Here are a few suggestions:

• Do your homework! Know the basics of an issue.
• Listen for understanding First
• Ask questions regarding your true understanding of the speakers position
• Focus areas of Commonality or understanding.
• Concentrate on those issues first
• When it comes to areas of difference articulate your position with strength and grace
• Articulate your position well.
• Ask questions as to understanding of your assessments. 
• Be open to being wrong
• Find areas of weakness in your argument. 
• Do more research
• Be willing to change, modify or strengthen your position.
• Be honest with yourself and with the one you are debating. 
• If applicable set the stage for future dialog. 
• Persever! Practice pays rich dividends.

Abortion - A Charged Debate!

 Abortion - How Should we Respond as Christians?

No issue is as charged with strong convictions as abortion. As we develop strong convictions we often lose clarity and good sense on both sides of this issue. 

For those of us that oppose abortion the danger is making enemies of those who are faced with abortion as an alternative. We may find it difficult to be Christlike in our behavior and attitude. Please understand I am not directing my consideration at our belief or our resolve but the manner of our response . 

Often people facing abortion may be hurt, afraid, confused, uneducated, unloved, lack the knowledge of alternatives and facing the guile of family or institutions. Yes, indeed they may have made foolish choices but fear is often the overwhelming factor.

Whatever the reason, the procedure without adequate education and medical care can be archaic. Even life can be at stake. None of us should ever want that. After all we believe God is a God of second chances. Abortions "will" happen for all kind of reasons. Abortion after rape is at least understandable even if we oppose it as an alternative. While abortion simply for birth control may be beyond my grasp it is the norm for others without a Christian moral compass.

For the Christian there is overwhelming reason  to oppose abortion. However we should be able to articulate our opposition clearly with strength, compassion and caring. 

There is much more to be said about abortion. Is it a legal issue? How has the Church responded to the issue? How should be Church respond today. Maybe we will touch on some of these issues in a later blog.