Webster's Dictionary defines the word 'opinion' as a belief or idea held with confidence but not substantiated by direct proof or knowledge. The difference between a fact and an opinion is that a fact can be verified, whereas an opinion cannot. We develop opinions as statements of belief where we do not have facts available. We all have opinions. I have mine and you have yours. Through discussion and sharing why I have a certain opinion, I may be able to influence your opinion, or you may be able to influence mine. Yet, in the absence of the discovery of new facts, we could be each be left with our separate opinions.
The First Amendment to our Constitution gives us freedom of speech. Therefore, we are free to voice our opinions. Arguably (as it is my opinion), that nowhere is this more evident than in politics. With the goal of making this Nation a better place for all citizens, we have political parties that develop a platform based on opinions on how to best steer our Nation's government towards that goal. Too often, we see people attack others and call them names based on these opinions. The response to an attack is always a defense, and in the case of an attack on an opinion, the defender throws up as many facts as he or she can muster to bolster the rationale behind that opinion. It is often messy business and particularly today with social media, the result is a greater and greater divide between camps.
Converse to an attack is persuasion. Through respectful discussion and the earnest objective to understand, we are able to see the perspective of those who hold different opinions than we do. By calmly discussing the facts that support our opinions, we either influence others or agree to disagree. Sometimes, when we put as much effort into listening as we do with talking, we find that our opinion changes. Either way, discussion leads to an understanding of others' viewpoints and their understanding of ours. When we truly care about others, we want to understand the basis of their opinions and help them meet their needs. I encourage you to show patience, take pause, and listen. Do not be afraid to state your opinion, but also be tolerant to the opinion of others.
A Scout is Courteous and A Scout is Kind.