I love this poem by Anis Mojgani. ("Come Closer" performed at TWLOHA's Heavy and Light event.) The words he uses are a great example of how to enter into a meaningful conversation. Too often do we speak before thinking. I'm as guilty as anyone on this. I need to be reminded that before I have any interaction that I hope to have a positive effect, I need to check my ego and think about how I can best serve the person I'm interacting with.
The overturning of Prop 8 here in California has stirred many conversations, debates and arguments. I believe that it is a good thing to express our opinions and hopefully we remain open enough to have meaningful discussions. I've read many posts on how legalizing gay marriage will lead to the destruction of family in America. I've also read a few articles, such as this one from The Washington Post, that report on how the "millennial generation" is overwhelmingly supportive of marriage equality and that it might actually be good for the institution of marriage. When I think about my own opinion of the debate, I think about my friends who are gay. What would I say to these people that I care about?
Do I want my words and actions to tell them that I think their pursuit of happiness in life will cause the destruction of family?
Do I want to tell them that their dream to marry the person that they love will never be legal in my state, on my watch?
What if someone said that to me? I wouldn't feel so great about myself. I think there is a better way to live out my calling to love people. Starting with the way I enter conversation.
Come closer.
You are quite the beauty.
I am like you.
If we can start here, our conversations will be more meaningful and our relationships will be much more intimate. No matter our age, race, sexuality, we all have at least one thing in common. We are all human and, more than I might know it, I am like you.
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