@jal333, What you wrote is so true about changing another's beliefs and behaviors. We can only improve our own.

I listen to but do not respond to opposing viewpoints in a futile attempt at understanding why others believe as they do. I am no more willing to change my unspoken opinions or beliefs than they are theirs.

However, as deepening divisions in this country become ever more evident and more throughout the land take to the streets becoming destructive on many fronts on a multitude of issues, I pray fiercely for a healing in this country; a landslide turnout for coming elections and for far wiser minds than mine to find peaceful, positive solutions to the increasing dangers internationally, nationally and locally that beset us so that our children and grands can live out their lives in a nation that once fought for freedom from tyranny, equality and the rights of all.

Only history can recount recount the lasting effects of our present struggles. I pray it will also report that our nation, through the actions of both our leaders and the common man also found ways to restore civility and the faith that people can agree to disagree while focused on the higher good of all. I'm counting on our youth and the guidance of their families to work successfully in future to rectify some of the toxicity and damage being done at present. It truly can be done but the question remains, will we and they be willing to do what will be required?