"Not everyone thinks the way you think, knows the things you know, believes the things you believe, nor acts the way you would act. Remember this and you will go a long way in getting along with people." --Arthur Forman

I used to be certain that I knew when to voice my opinion and when to keep my mouth shut. Even if I wanted to speak up, I'd rather avoid the conflict than voice an opinion. However, the older I get the more I want to share my opinion. With all of the controversial things that are going on in the world, it's growing more difficult for people like me to bite their tongue. It is extremely challenging to hear someone else voicing opinions that go against everything you believe in and refrain from telling them why you feel otherwise. However, when brought up the wrong way, a difference in opinion can lead to way more trouble than you thought you were getting into.

So where do we draw the line? What qualifies as too much when it comes to throwing your two cents in? I feel that it is difficult to find a balance between standing up for what you believe is right and seriously offending people. There is a great difference in respectfully expressing feelings toward a topic and tearing apart someone else’s opinion. It all comes down to how it is approached.

If we could all stop and think about what we are about to say and whether or not it could come across as hurtful or offensive, we may save ourselves from conflict we don't want to be involved in. Of course when opinions collide, someone might end up with hurt feelings. But there is a way to get an opinion across without being blunt or arrogant in the process. There has to be consideration of others and how they feel, even if your opinion is the complete opposite of theirs. Respecting someone does not mean you always agree with them or support their beliefs. What it does mean is that you understand not everyone is always going to see things the way you do and not everyone believes what you believe. As difficult as that may be sometime, it is simply reality. We live in a world full of different views and values. There will always be issues that bring out a variety of opinions.

Still, don't be afraid to express how you feel on any given topic. If you feel strongly about something, let your voice be heard. But when you do, make sure that your words are chosen wisely. Be certain that whatever you are saying is supporting what you believe while always keeping others’ feelings in mind. Understand the fact that refraining from an argument does not mean you don't stand up for what you think is right. It means that you know how to stand up for it while being mindful of others.

Sincerely,

A Girl With Lots of Opinions