by Jason Ray France

Created on: August 08, 2009   Last Updated: August 10, 2009

For the most part, I have kept my religious and political views to myself, although it is a part of me and no secret. Those that know me intimately, know where I stand, and I must confess that I have been drawn into the occasional debate. I also featured an election poster on one of my internet profiles, but my candidate of choice didn't make it past the 2008 Primaries.

All it would take is a quick scan of my friend lists and other information to figure out some of my views, but I am also associated with many that don't share these same views. The sad lesson that I have learned through past experience, is that these two particular subjects can be alienating and divisive. Alienation and divisiveness are harmful.

I have been disappointed in some by the way that they have chosen to express their opinions. I was even disheartened by the candidates, themselves. I'm most surprised by those that claim to live by a higher law. In terms of the recent election and other voter issues, they have not always been found traveling the high road.

It has sometimes been hurtful, but I am working on not taking it personally. This can sometimes be difficult. I won't reject anyone as a result of it, because I would rather focus on the value they bring to my life and the lessons that they teach me.

I am grateful to live in a country where we are free to express ourselves, but why should some feel compelled to attack each other and discredit another's beliefs? Can't we promote our way of thinking without doing harm to others? I would have thought that by now we would be more aware than that. I have enjoyed most of the SNL skits and comical Youtube videos as much as anyone else.

This isn't the sort of thing that I'm referring to. Such are usually meant only in fun, and it's good for us to laugh with each other, rather than at each other. It is not my intent to be on the attack, myself. I mean only to suggest a better way-a conscious and enlightened way of doing things.

One of our greatest gifts as Americans is our common and unique heritage. We are Americans first in terms of politics, and in terms of our individual religious beliefs, a bond born of this shared history remains. May we be balanced in all things and build on our core values.

There is a way for each one of us to stand for cherished priorities, while still honoring and uplifting each other in the process. After all, isn't that what a family is? When we learn to be more accepting of each other and our differences, it will bring us all to the next level. Respect is not weakness. It is strength. It is born of love.

Divisiveness is motivated only by fear. Let us remember that each time we say the pledge, we are committing to be "...one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

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