Believe me, I am in need of this reminder as anyone else. I share my opinions daily. I get into disagreements and passionate discussions, too. And it is far too easy to paint everyone with a broad brushstroke just because of our differences.

In the big picture, I don’t know how long this cycle of incivility will last. It may never improve as a whole. However, I do know that in our owns little corners of the country this toxic culture can be lessened by choosing to see people as fellow citizens and not just distant foes.

No, I didn’t say you have to go out for a cup of coffee with them. No, I didn’t say you have to dilute your worldview. And please, don’t excuse actual racism, sexism, or threatening speech. That’s common sense.

Just consider that how you look at them is probably the exact way they look at you.