Taking Sides is Not Right (for Me)
In light of the polarization in the world right now, I’ve been reflecting on what my response should be.
I have opinions and values, of course, some of them well-informed. But every time I come out on one side or the other by voicing those opinions, something feels deeply wrong.
So I’ve looked toward many of the people I admire most for guidance, and what emerges is a stance of inclusivity and non-interference. These people will give their perspective on truth when asked, but they are not advocates.
Taking a stance feels wrong because everyone is in my family, not just my “side.” The highest truth also is that I could be wrong even on my deepest held beliefs. You can’t come out on only one side if that’s true.
More importantly, when I pick sides and advocate strenuously I am quietly eroding my moral development. There’s something higher than tribalism, I think, even though tribalism and advocacy has its place in the chain of our evolution. Tribalism just isn’t a place where I want to stay.
With that in mind, I am attempting to pull back from this place of opinion and partisanship. It is someone else’s fight, not mine. I want to embrace all my brothers and sisters, not just some.
Peter Kowalke
Peter is a relationship coach, writer/producer, and R&D monastic. He splits his time between San Francisco and Asia. Read more about Peter.
Overview
Peter is living in Nairobi, Kenya and helping couples and singles have stronger relationships through Kowalke Relationship Coaching. He also oversees content marketing firm, EdChief, runs the multi-faith org, American Vedanta, and spends part of his year in San Francisco and Bangkok. Read blog.