IDEAS

There is nothing here you need to subscribe or swear to. It's just a collection of things we think make sense, and which may be useful to you.

In the fierce battle for "attention" (and ad revenue) stoking fear and hatred appears to be "most effective", and hence all too common. Calmer voices and cooler heads get little coverage; to be seen at all they must show themselves.

     Let us work to find connections when we can,

     accept when we cannot,

     and learn to tell the difference.

Try to hear what others are saying, and not just wait to respond. Work to understand where they are coming from, and why, and not get too upset if they fail to hold the beliefs we wish they held.

When someone says something that seems wrong, ask them about it, rather than simply telling them how wrong they are. If things go well, they may ask you about your beliefs.

If you get to a friendly place with someone you disagree with, it can be fun to suggest a Source Exchange: "I'll review one of yours if you review one of mine." Books, articles, movies, podcasts, whatever strikes you.

Go beyond the headlines, the tweets, and your comfort zone, to get more of the full story. Remember that most media strives for "engagement" not understanding, and it's well established that sowing division is the simplest way to grab people's attention. Guard and spend your attention well, it's a valuable thing.

Reach out when you can, rather than waiting for others to come to you.