Rev. Dr. Mike Wooton

With every great strength comes a great weakness. One of the great strengths of our American culture is our individualism. The weaknesses that accompanies individualism is the inability to work together. Our weakness is showing in a time where we need to work collectively.

What’s needed right now?

1. Empathy for each other. Think about why someone may have a differing perspective and experiences than you. Who would you be if you grew up, we’re educated like, or had parents from another town/city? The real question is, would you be one iota different than the person with the differing perspective? Not likely.

2. Listening. Get to the substance of disagreement. The thrust of emotions and polarization that someone gives off is only a sign of something deeper. As my friend Shane Bishop says, “Be light, avoid the heat.”

3. Sacrifice. To get through tumultuous times everyone, that’s right everyone, will have to sacrifice in some way. Sacrifice for the good of others is in our DNA, its time to call upon it.

We will get through these days. We will find a new normal. Everything is going to be alright. The future is brighter than ever. We are strong, but with every strength comes a weakness. Let’s collectively strengthen our weakness, let’s work together, so we can walk into a great future.