Divided We Stand

"Welcome to The Laconia Daily Sun’s Digital Public Square 1.0, a place for civil and thoughtful dialogue, and an experiment in developing the technology and processes to better understand our differences and try to find common ground. The variety that characterizes our community is one of our greatest assets. We differ in our facts, our principles, our objectives and our views of how the world works. Listening to each other to fully understand and appreciate such differences, before we respond, will improve our civic dialogue. Please keep in mind that collectively we are responsible for the topics and tone of this forum".

    The above paragraph represents an attempt to change the divide in the local community; making it more a place for civil and thoughtful dialogue. However, what happens when both sides resists changing. I know I have strong opinions about changing my values to the other side. One of my basic values is"for the common good". I understand that the other side has their opinion and wants me to accept their way. Some how we have to compromise and meet in the middle. One can use active listening to understand the point of view of the other side. I am frustrated about the lack of progress. Once you understand it, and it's against your values, what do you do?