Written by Jessica Shelburne
A democrat and a republican walk into a Dallas Cowboys football game and sit next to each other…one might assume that this circumstance would be followed by argument, conflict, and heated disagreements. It is a common assumption to have, but not necessarily true.
Earlier this month, former President George W. Bush and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres demonstrated how it is possible to not only exist peacefully in the same area as someone with whom you disagree, but also to enjoy their company and have a worthwhile conversation. Images of the two politically differing individuals sitting together at the game quickly circulated the internet as Americans criticized them for interacting with someone who does not fully support the other’s ideals and values.
DeGeneres responded to the criticism informing people that being kind is not an act reserved only for those who uphold the same opinions, “I’m friends with a lot of people who don’t share the same beliefs that I have. We’re all different and I think that we’ve forgotten that that’s ok.”
According to spokesman Freddy Ford, President Bush respects DeGeneres and appreciated her defense of their interaction.
As it turns out, humans are not comprised solely of their political affiliation! In a world that is so polarized, the least we can do for our fellow human is be kind. In the days leading up to another election, and even after that, perhaps we should all bear in mind what DeGeneres so eloquently stated, “When I say, ‘Be kind to one another,’ I don’t mean only the people that think the same way that you do. I mean be kind to everyone—doesn’t matter.”
