A lesson I have been struck by this year is when I have taken time to have open-minded, mutually respectful dialogue (usually 1:1) with someone who has different beliefs than I do, we often end up connecting on shared values in spite of being on "opposite ends" of the political spectrum or belonging to different faiths. There is so much division in the world and in our media, and while the results of the most recent election are deeply troubling me, I also find it deeply troubling how quick we are to drop or cancel others because of who they voted for or what religion they practice, rather than getting to know them as the complex and multi-faceted human beings that they are. When we shame, shut someone down or make a snap judgment, we are only pushing them further into isolation and the echo chamber of "their side." I think the solution is our willingness to communicate, looking beyond someone's stated views and digging deeper into the why. We have been manipulated into division, and connecting on shared values is what bridges that gap and allows us to heal and move forward as a collective. The key is being mindful to not go into the conversation with the objective of trying to change someone's mind, but rather to understand them better. Of course not everyone will be capable of having these conversations, and it's important to use discernment. But especially with friends and loved ones, I think it is important and meaningful to hear someone out that we disagree with - because often, there is still a lot to connect on underneath the surface.  Much love and gratitude to this community for being a safe space to have these discussions. Here's to bringing more of this connective and communal energy into 2025.