The world we live in is one of tumult and strife. Every day, we see and hear about countless acts of violence and hostility. We’re bombarded with hate speech, ignorance, anger and selfishness.

Leaked documents remind us of the heinous corruption behind the closed doors of world governments. The American presidential race divides people who were once best friends. Social injustices permeate nearly every aspect of our daily lives. But that needs to end. Now.

We are the ones who will make a difference. We are the ones responsible to stand together, to defy corruption and the blindness of anger. We are the ones who will begin a revolution of love.

Ask anyone you know and they’ll likely have an opinion about the current presidential candidates. Regardless of their position, the most powerful opinions are seldom positive. We’ve grown into a culture of people who define ourselves by what we hate.

“Donald Trump is a racist.”

“Hillary Clinton is a criminal.”

“Bernie Sanders is a fascist.”

Strength does not manifest itself in how loudly you can shout at someone with a contradictory idea. Strength does not come from perpetuating the roiling subcultures of negativity and stubbornness. Strength does not come from the number of venomous comments you can post on a social media feed.

Strength is the ability to look into the eyes of your opponent and tell them that you respect them. Strength is the choice to lose an argument because you value the person more than you value having the last word. Strength is setting aside differences, taking a deep breath and remembering that we’re all humans. We’re all flawed. We’re all wrong about things.

No matter where you find yourself on the ever-changing spectrum of life in the twenty-first century, you are a human being. A human being who was likely taught standards of love and forgiveness. A human being who was shown compassion at hard times in your life. A human being who has infinitely more in common with other people than in contrast.

Everyone has an opinion. Everyone has a culture. Everyone has a past. Not everyone has friends. Not everyone has a loving family. Not everyone has experienced kindness. Wouldn’t you rather be someone that shows someone gentleness and respect than someone who tries to shove an agenda down their throat?

So next time you feel like raising your voice or typing something hateful behind the anonymity of a computer screen, take a moment to think and reflect. Are you willing to hurt people because of their opinion? Are you willing to alienate friends because of the bumper sticker on their car? Are you willing to disappoint people who love you just because you’re frustrated?

We need to set aside our differences.

Compassion needs a comeback.

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