your message cannot be heard?
I recently ventured to Olympia, WA for March For Life to learn more about the issues at hand concerning life choices, meet some of our legislators, and received an earful from a small group of demonstrators shouting statements that seemed contrary to the day’s event. Here is a brief video I recorded shortly afterward … then read on for my “after thoughts.”
I see these situations so often and I’m sure you have, too. A group of people or an individual are so determined to make sure their voice is heard that they shout. They shout so loudly that their voice becomes unclear … jumbled … unintelligible. This was the case on this particular day at March for Life.
A group of about 20 people, out of the 4-5000 that attended, were sharing an opposing opinion to what the main event was about. Unfortunately, they were rude in their delivery and using megaphones that made their words unclear. So much so that I heard, “We don’t care if women die.” Really? Is that what you meant to have heard? I was so surprised I asked a few people around me and they confirmed my suspicions. They heard exactly what I heard, too. I’m going to give this group the benefit of the doubt and guess that it probably wasn’t what they were trying to convey at all. But, enough about the group … as it’s just an example of why I write this post …
I believe in freedom of speech. I believe that every person has something worthwhile to share and be heard. However, shouting it in my face isn’t going to make my ears hear any better.
I encourage you to be strong in your convictions. Understand the foundation of your values and be well informed to justify your position. But, can opinions be shared with respect for the other person? Is it possible they may be accepted more readily when common ground and understanding is found first? I believe the answer to both of these questions is a resounding, “Yes!” How about you? Please comment below …
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