Yesterday at church, the main topic of the sermon was all about love. This includes love for our neighbors, along with the obvious love for our Lord. The pastor brought up the immediate state that our world is in today. Instead of turning to one another to solve our problems, we are turning away. We are turning away from the chance to see things through a new lens and gain a new perspective. We are turning away from the possibility of enlightenment found when we accept new people into our lives. It is time we stop turning our backs on each other. We need to start embracing.

The first thing that popped into my mind was the NFL. People are kneeling during our national anthem and others are greatly offended by this gesture. Some have completely stopped watching the games and others are now watching it because of the kneelers.

No matter what side you are on, you are most likely guilty of being unwilling to hear the other's side. I know I was.

I was OUTRAGED when I heard that these players were using their platform in such a manner, and to be honest, I still am. I believe that the American Flag and the people who defended it deserve our utmost respect. I do not want to ignore the issues these kneelers are suggesting, but I do not agree with the timing and scenario in which they have addressed them.

Despite all of this, I refuse to turn my back on them. I want them to know that while my opinions completely oppose their actions, I respect their opinion and their freedom to do such things. I refuse to hate them for their actions. I would not want them to hate me for my opposing views. I like to believe that there is more to a person than their political stances.

Yes, some will argue that it is a reflection of their values (and they aren't wrong), but I see no problem with discussing and interacting with people of all different kinds of values (I actually encourage it).

College has been a great place for me to broaden my perspectives. While my overall political opinions have not changed much (which is very strange due to the liberal nature of universities), I now have a deeper understanding of the reasons people agree with things I oppose.

It is hard to admit, and I am ashamed, but I used to not be so understanding of people with opposing views. I saw them as wrong, and me as right. Everything was black and white. My back was turned away from them.

The funny thing about turning your back on people is that you do not get to truly SEE them. When I refused to listen to those who disagreed with me, I was missing out on great discussions and interesting, respectable people. I was unable to see that they were just like me and had similar struggles. I was blinded by my ugly pride. I promise it is not hard at all to not only talk to but be friends with people who have completely different political opinions from you. Believe me, it's possible.

My current roommate and I agree on very little politically and we are the best of friends! All you have to do is turn towards those around you. Whether they are black, white, religious, or an atheist, we all have something to learn from those around us.

Every stranger has something to teach us. Do not turn your back on them.