by Amanda Teo

Created on: March 23, 2010   Last Updated: March 25, 2010

            In the world today, people don’t have much time to sit and relax.  With the fast pace society constantly tries to keep up with, it is a big challenge to set aside time to rest. If people find trouble to do just that, isn’t it a greater issue to just find time to sit and think? The lack of that leads to the lack of deep dialogue. We all face the trouble keeping these conversations from happening. We need to seize these special moments! When life provides the opportunity to dialogue with others, grab hold of it. This is an opening to ponder on one’s own actions, truths and beliefs.

            Now, when life presents this wonderful occasion, how do you use it to its fullest? I believe the greatest types of dialogues are those that will deepen your understanding of truths. We all live in this world with a different perspective. Coming with a heart of respect, an open mind and a patient spirit will be great assets to the expanding of knowledge.

            Respect is very important to keep in a conversation. Dictionary.com defines respect as “esteem for or a sense of the worth or excellence of a person, a personal quality or ability, or something considered as a manifestation of a personal quality or ability.” It is vital to show that the other person is worth respect and worth listening to. If one shows no reverence to the other person, a conversation will not go anywhere. Making a person feel respected will make one want to express what is truly in their hearts.  Respect is the key to meaningful conversation. It will produce a safe and comfortable environment to share; especially about religious topics.

            Secondly, coming with an open mind is also an important ingredient. With ears ready to listen and a heart ready to absorb, it will lead it to a better interreligious dialogue. An open mind will tear down bias. It will help you not to lean on just talking about your own truths but listen to what the other person has to offer as well. Yes, listen. It is important! If you don’t listen, the conversation will never reach deep ground. As you listen, your open mind will try to connect the two different truths together and try to find some common ground. As you listen however, it is important to stand strong in what you believe it. Try not to sway to lure the person to your believe. If you sway and try to adjust your own religion, it is not a good sign to the person you are with.

            Lastly, patience is also crucial. Coming with a mindset to just convert is not a good start to a meaningful dialogue. You must have the endurance to love the other person. Finding the desire to find truth in them shows the care you have for their beliefs. Patience will show that the differences that set the two religions apart. It is not about which religion is better, but the discovery of truths these two religions hold. Truth is truth no matter who says it.

            So when you feel like a meaningful interreligious dialogue is about to arise, remember to keep these points: respect, an open mind and a patience heart. These essential elements to keep will lead to an engaging meaningful dialogue.

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