Our world is in shambles.

Media is run rampant with violent and heart-wrenching stories, while trying to answer the “why?” question. Why are these things happening, and when will they stop?

We are losing sleep, people, and things precious to us. No matter what kind of loss, it hurts. We are losing as a human race. We have been killing each other without a second thought, losing all trust in each other. Columbine, Sandy Hook, Paris, San Bernardino, and the list goes on -- for far too long.

This is no way to live.

“Our culture has accepted two huge lies. The first is that if you disagree with someone’s lifestyle, you must fear or hate them. The second is that to love someone means you agree with everything they believe or do. Both are nonsense. You don’t have to compromise convictions to be compassionate.” -Rick Warren

All of our conflict comes down to this: we are broken, broken people. Each one of us.

We may all have different views on religion, culture, and politics, but none of that should matter. These are minuscule in the grand scheme of things.

We don’t need to hate people we disagree with. In fact, we should do the exact opposite -- we should love the people we disagree with. They are the ones who make us think a little harder, and who make us refine our own views. We should celebrate the great intricacies and diversity of thought, because it’s really a beautiful thing.

No matter how different, every life matters, whether banker or bomber.

So, take hold of your views, stand firm, and respect the others around you. Pray for our world and compassionately love each other without compromising convictions.