We are capable of building needed bridges

Can people of faith serve as bridge builders for the political divide gripping our country? Yes, we can. We can lean forward, reach across the proverbial aisle and find common ground.

First, both sides must understand the other. As a liberal of faith, I often hear other liberals decry conservatives, saying, "I don't know how anyone can vote for Trump!" Liberals and progressives need only to open their eyes and see.

The president's appeal to his supporters is rooted in the concrete results his administration has amassed: police reform legislation, being tough on immigration, reversing diplomatic protocols with China and Russia, the Cares Act that paid working Americans $1,200 each during the pandemic and promises to restore America to a time that white, blue-collar workers expected economic security and a place atop of the food chain.

Conservatives of faith must open their eyes, too. They should acknowledge President-Elect Biden's appeal. His supporters value truth-telling, rights for people of color and immigration. Progressive voters support health insurance for everyone and believe climate change is real.

Many believe it's impossible to talk to the other side. Others are afraid of losing a friend or estranging a family member. We can't let disbelief and fear rule our lives. The stakes are too high.

After acknowledging the other side's values, we must find a conversation partner different from ourselves. Then start listening. I practice speaking directly and listening curiously to persons whom I know think differently than me. I avoid arguing. Instead, I try to understand their political positions.

People of faith own a powerful tool for bridge building: our spiritual practices. We know about compassion, prayer, meditation, gratitude and patience. These practices enable us to lean forward without judgment.

Spiritual disciplines are more than paths to piety. They represent practical pathways to respectful relationships with our neighbors. Rather than acting on instinct, spiritual practices train us to stop, breathe and reflect. Then act. That action sequence provides a path to understanding.

In my faith, Unitarian Universalism, we teach people to pivot toward love when things get tough. Love is more than a concept. It is a practice that transforms lives. Love calls us to acknowledge each person's intrinsic worth. It empowers us to break down barriers caused by skin color, privilege, sexual orientation and political persuasion.

Here's my charge to the Las Cruces faith community. Put down your swords and shields. Use your grounding in your spiritual practices. Find someone from the opposite side of the political divide and start a conversation. Seek understanding, not persuasion.

There is plenty of common ground. We only need to open our eyes and recognize it. Faith calls us to act on behalf of the common good. People of faith lead the way!

Rev. Xolani "xk" Kacela, Ph.D., is the minister at Unitarian Universalist Church of Las Cruces. He also hosts “Take on Faith” on KTAL-LP community radio. Visit https://revdrxk.com.