A Call for Compromise

Last week Republicans seized control of the U.S. Senate, while capturing the largest Republican majority in the House of Representatives in over half a century. While speaking publically for the first time after Election Day, President Obama had a message for voter and non-voters alike: “I hear you.” He said that the election results offered a “moment of reflection.”  Regardless of your political affiliation, we can all embrace the spirit of compromise that President Obama is alluding to. Given our current political climate, it seems that an attempt at compromise by both parties is what will truly ignite great change for our nation.

Perhaps you haven’t got major politics on your shoulders, but you may be looking ahead to seeing family for the holidays with whom you don’t always agree. You can love someone without agreeing with everything they say or do. There are plenty of ways to compromise with someone without losing or sacrificing who you are.  Be kind, have ears to listen to those who think differently from you, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Talk about these and other ideas for compromise with young adults:

  • What are some of the ways that you can have ears for others and engage in conversation and compromise?
  • Do you have family or friends that you love dearly, but don’t always agree with? How do you handle disagreements?
  • What tips would you offer to other young adults for avoiding stress and arguments at family holiday gatherings?
  • As Christians, we may not always have the most popular views. How do you handle conflicts with your faith in your everyday interactions or conversations with others? (Think about coworkers, friends, even family members.) How do you handle yourself with a spirit of grace?