Dear practitioner:
How can I handle a family member with different political views than myself? I have attempted to understand their perspectives. However, we can not even have a conversation about the weather without it turning into a debate.
Sincerely,
Anonymous
Answer: by Practitioner Cristina Rodriguez
Spirit in Its original state must be ever-present with us. IT refuses to be divided. Consequently, the eternal Wholeness Itself is immediately at the point or our perception- all of it.
-Ernest Holmes, “Journey into life”
Dear Anonymous:
For some reason, two words call my attention: “handle” and “attempted.”
When we talk about handling a situation or someone, we usually try to control our own emotions or control some outcome. Perhaps we could change the word to accept, accepting a family member with different political views, accepting their point of view doesn’t mean we agree with them; we are just open and receptive to their opinions.
Sometimes there is just no way to agree to disagree, and the best way I think it will be to say something like: This topic seems to bring the worst out of us. I love you, and I want to understand your ideas, but perhaps we should leave politics aside. So let it go; the only thing you can control is yourself.
The SOM textbook states (pg. 304-2)
…handle the thought of competition at once. Declare: “There is no competition and no monopoly in my experience.”
The SOM textbook states (pg. 399-5)
There is a vast difference between “holding thoughts” and holding things in thought. One is the attempt at an impossible coercion; the other is a mental acceptance. To hold thoughts, as though we were forcing issues, does no good and utilizes but a fraction of the creative power at our disposal. To hold in though, as though we were LETTING something happen, is to use the greater power…the greatest power of all.
Dear Anonymous, sometimes we have to be the ones to let go first.
Reverend Cheryl always talks about how she doesn’t allow herself to be in an uncomfortable situation; you can lovingly step aside.
In gratitude for your openness,
Cristina Rodriguez R.Sc.P.