Some people won't like this piece. Some may become very frustrated and/or offended. Know that, in advance, I welcome disapproval and/or criticism.

I don't know how many times I've read or heard things about "close-minded people". Usually, these are people who are considered racists, sexists, politically conservative or homophobes - though I think this term has been incorrectly coined; are people actually "afraid" of gay people? Alas, I digress.

I have a problem with this. Here's why.

Are people who fall into this category considered "close-minded"? Often times, absolutely. They're ignorant (regardless of who's fault that is), selfish or culturally egocentric and are unwilling to put aside their own thoughts, beliefs or politics for a moment to view those of a differing individual. They often feel as if they are right and the others are wrong.

Frequently, other more "open-minded" people become furious with these people and demand apologies and life/perspective changes; and that is okay and, frankly, often the correct response.

But folks, the road goes both ways.

I don't know how many times I've seen or heard these "open-minded" people say or do something to prove they are actually just as close-minded as they think "close-minded" people are.

Whether over social issues, religious differences or something else, these people feel they are "right" and these "close-minded" people are "wrong".

Sounds familiar, right?

For example.

Some people believe marriage should ONLY be between a man and a woman. To many gay couples, this is close minded and limiting of what is said to be a "basic human right"; they are right and these "homophobes" are wrong.

But these same people are often completely unwilling to see the religious, political or personal reasons others have for said belief. Shouldn't an "open-minded" person be open to the beliefs of others?

"But that belief limits my unalienable rights as a person/American."

No. It doesn't. That is that person's belief. They are just entitled to theirs as you are to yours.

Now, I want to clarify that I am primarily referring to the "average Joe's" in America and not politicians who have power to impose their beliefs on others; that is a different, large-scale scenario and is a story for another time.

The average person you meet, are Facebook friends with or know from "back home" is entitled to his/her opinion, folks. Doesn't matter if you agree or not. Don't take someone's personal, religious, political or social belief personally, unless that person makes a remark to you which is directly offensive, rude or false.

But, by all means, debate! If you believe someone is "wrong", use those persuasive essay skills and try to win them over. Do it kindly and respectfully, though.

All of this to say, make sure before you call someone out for being "close-minded", you are doing so without being "close-minded" yourself. We are a nation of 330+ million people with a nearly endless amount of beliefs, political stances and personal reasons. We are never going to be 100% in agreement. But we can be 100% respectful to everyone.

So, when you disagree, be wise, friends. There's a difference between being "close-minded" and having considered someone's viewpoint and rejecting it because of "x, y and z" reasons.

Cheers,

ZER