When I wrote about diplomacy and the art of peacekeeping in the last post, some thought I was suggesting that we negotiate or compromise on important truths. Admittedly, that would not be a good thought.
Unhealthy compromise should be a concern.
So let’s narrow our focus to the idea of interests vs. values, which according to the diplomat I was referring to, is at the heart of so much international conflict. What if we approach matters of personal interest and rights with a willingness to compromise?
Let’s say I have neighbors who believe Jesus was an evil man because of the conflict that he created among his own people and nation. Would I betray the truth, by being patient in listening to them, respecting them and their right to disagree with me, and even showing an honest interest in what they think and why?
PS. By the way, the dog in the picture above is named Buddy. The red sphere is a red ball. One of Buddy’s favorite past times is to chase that red ball. He loves to play.