How many times have you had to say, “lets agree to disagree”, just to end a heated conversation with a friend, family member or spouse? It generally falls into the category, ‘no matter what your stance, it is not mine.’ Stubborn is a trait I can manifest and allow to grow in my soul, keeping me from compromising or seeing things from others point of view. Agree to disagree is not bad. It is safe, permissible, patient. Forcing others to think the way we think is not embracing our differences or individuality. We are all created differently and with unique qualities that allow this world to function as one body. It is not wise to only hear yourself and not allow the wisdom of others to cross your path. It is their wisdom, their specialty, that may shine light into an area of darkness or clarity into a moment of confusion.
I often find myself troubled when I can’t come to an agreement with the person I am speaking to. When my thoughts feel so valid and right that it annoys me that they won’t abandon their ship and jump onto mine! But why?! Do I plan to abandon my ship? Likely not, but I am willing to allow more crew man, more help, more staff to ensure my ship runs safely. I would like to have a mechanic that knows his way around an engine and a fisherman that has the right bait. If I am the captain of the boat, do I not need a compass and map of course to keep me out of danger and sailing away from the storms? To think we can do this life alone is often ignorant and without merit. Because we can’t. Just as we need the wisdom and gifts of others, we need the perspective of humility. We are all on the same boat of life, heading to the same destination of eternity. While others may jump ship and tread water for a bit, they will hopefully see that the ship offers rest and food. Jumping ship is not bad as long as we can use that experience to point us back to the reality that we need each other. We need people.
So as I sit here with this pondering thought of, “we just have to agree to disagree”, I see that it is in this that I am allowing them to be them and me to be me. To not have to beat my point home or force them from theirs. That their fear of uncertainty may bring me answers to the unknown. Agreeing to disagree is not bad. It is not a sign that you will never see eye to eye or agree on anything. It is your chance to show grace and mercy to someone’s opinion that you value and respect. So join me in this journey of reflection to see others as valuable resources, to embrace their gifts and to value their opinions. We are one body, lets agree to disagree.
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