Loving our enemies in a culture of political contempt

It’s the new year, we’re about 10 months away from the 2020 election, and things are tense.  It seems that many people believe that the political climate in America is about as bad as it’s ever been.  Here are some statistics:

  • A February 2017 poll showed that one in six Americans had stopped talking to a family member or friend because of the 2016 election.[1]

  • At the end of that year, another poll indicated that 71% of Americans believed that American political division had reached a “dangerous low point.”[2] 

  • The year before, work by political scientists indicated that political polarization was at its worst level since the Civil War.[3] 

  • Despite these statistics, 93% of Americans say they’re tired of how divided we’ve become – and 71% of us make this statement strongly.[4]  So, how can so many people be so tired of this and yet things seem to be continually getting worse?

Frankly, we don’t need surveys to realize how mutually contemptuous and judgmental our culture has become.  We see it all around us.

Instead of a guest tonight, Sal and Ed talk about politics in America – perhaps the hottest issue of 2020 given the upcoming election – and invite listeners to join the conversation and our efforts over the next year to improve the situation.

INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS

A challenge to reach out to a relative or friend you’ve been avoiding.

A challenge to join the @six27club by loving your political enemies.

Don’t lead off conversations with why you are right and the other person is wrong.

FULL ED and SAL DISCUSSION

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For more information: @gracein30; @six27club

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Opening music by Chris Tomlin, Your Grace Is Enough