I’ve been ruminating on a few news items lately and reading the debates over pros and cons of these issues. I’d like to share my thoughts, not on the issues themselves but rather on my thoughts about the actual discussion process. 
First, let me give a little info on the two main issues that drove me to my keyboard.
One is Congresses intent to review the Subminimum Wage law that allows companies to hire workers with disabilities and pay them less than minimum wage. As the parent of a Developmentally Disabled child preparing to enter the work force I can honestly argue for and against subminimum wages. The other issue is the Dream Act that will allow illegal immigrants in California to apply for state funded financial aid. Honestly, it’s a bit difficult to see the merits here. I have watched services for Matthew cut several times in the past few years due to budget cuts. It’s a bit tough for me to see how it is fair for people who don’t pay taxes, who don’t “play by the rules”, to receive financial breaks on a college education. I pay my taxes. I play by the rules. And Matthew gets less.
Exploring these issues has made it even more clear to me than it already was…
There are some pretty passionate people on both sides of these two issues. They often voice their opinions in a “my way or the highway” attitude. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not judging their opinions or their right to voice them. Indeed I believe our First Amendment is very precious.
But here is my concern…
We all come to the table with our own set of values and experiences. When we format our opinions only from those perspectives then we might be closing our minds to opinions and ideas from others. We might be closing ourselves off to people who have different values and experiences that are no less valid than our own.
This can lead us into thinking in terms of black and white. If we open our minds to truly listen to what others have to say, we might find out that they have some interesting points of view. We might find out that when we all come to the table and truly listen to each other, openly, honestly and without blame, that we aren’t so far apart. And that we can work together. For everyone’s benefit.
We might find a world of glorious colors.
Pretty scary, huh?
So what do you think? Please add your comments in the form below.
