The Growing Divide

The growing divide among citizens in the United States is a multifaceted issue with numerous contributing factors, with no single or absolute reason as to why it is happening. Coping with the growing divide can be challenging personally, but there are ways to handle this complex issue and develop a sense of hope and connection for yourself.

We should always strive to seek common ground and focus on shared values and experiences with people from different backgrounds and look for areas where we can collaborate and build bridges. We can actively listen and engage in courteous discussions with the goal of trying to understand the perspectives of those who disagree with us without judging or attacking them. Some of the ways to do that is by challenging our own biases, and view media critically and be mindful of the source of the information. We can seek out perspectives from different sides of the issue and fact-check information before sharing it. Make a point to focus on solutions, not just problems and avoid getting bogged down in the negativity and division. Most importantly, we need to practice self-care because dealing with division in our lives can be physically and emotionally draining. Make sure to take care of yourself by engaging in activities that bring you joy and reduce stress.

Remember, bridging the divide is going to be a long-term commitment that will require people of honorable character to focus on the greater good. It's important to choose methods that feel comfortable and safe for you, and to prioritize your own well-being while engaging with these issues. Even small steps can make a difference. Finally, as humans our goal should be to put the needs of the many ahead of the needs of the few, which extends even to the people we have personal relationships with, like friends and family. By taking individual and collective action, we can start to heal the divisions and build a more just and equitable society.