Come Together.....

Throughout this book it is obvious that as a society it is vital that we take the first step and stand up for what we believe in, to better our world. In Chapter 9, Loeb emphasis the importance to stand together, especially with those whose opinions differ from our own, in order to accomplish our tasks. When Loeb states, "The more we listen to those whose experiences and perspectives are unfamilir, the more we realize what draws us together," I believe he is saying that instead of viewing others opposing opinions as a threat we need to realize the similarities we share. Most people may become defensive when others opinions and perspectives differ from our own, but the reality is that we all share the passion and drive to stand up for our beliefs and take action to change. This passion is our most prized possession and if we take that and combined it with others we will create a strong force that can not be reckoned with. By combining our differences and banning together we could move mountains.

The story in the book that really inspired me of how people who generally might seem to have nothing in common worked together to make a positive change was about the Ku Klux Klan member C.P. Ellis. By joining the AFL-CIO labor organization to first voice his opinions of the blacks in the community. When he was nominated to cochair the group with a black lady, Ann Atwater, he was both mystified and filled with hatred. To his surprise the two developed commonality and became close friends as they worked together for a common goal. This is proof that even the most different of people can come together and that "we should never lose hope that a particular person can change.

I would have to say that in my own life I do not put myself in situations where I am exposed to people who may have very different ideas or lead very different lives than my own. Just like most we are attracted to those who we have commonality with, it makes it easier on us to complete tasks. But after reading this Chapter I see the importance of working with those who differ from us in order to expand our minds and experiences. I will try now to put myself into challenging and different experiences.