I Smile When We Find Common Ground

I was noting the other day that there are quite a few people I tend to disagree with on ATS and they usually ruffle my feathers because of some of the things they say that seem like complete madness to me. I am sure they feel the same way about much of what I say. However, I don't want to focus on that today.

I have also been pleasantly surprised when from time to time I find a post by one of these folks that is spot on. It literally brings a smile to my face to see that even with someone that I disagree with on almost everything there are issues on which we can find common ground. Anyway, thank you to my ATS 'frenemies' for those rare times we can find agreement. I truly DO appreciate it and hope that one day we can have a beer or share a friendly conversation in the real world despite our differences.

a reply to: Metallicus

S&F.
Agreed, it is nice to get along with our sparring partners from time to time.

a reply to: Metallicus

S&F

It's one of the best things about being here. It opens minds and creates unity, instead of the incessant "us against them" mentality.

I have always thought that though there are some with whom I may often disagree with, there is always common ground somewhere for us. I realize that sometimes debates can get heated and we can get frustrated and all, but I never hate anyone. I even star their posts on other threads. So...no hard feelings here. Just want people to know that.

a reply to: Metallicus

Yes, it is difficult to converse without discussion.

It is imperative to acknowledge the shared ends we have even if our means differ dramatically.

I would imagine that for the most part we are very different people face to face.

At least I know I don't tend to get into deep and frank political and religious discussions in casual face to face chat. Maybe the rest of you differ?

a reply to: ketsuko

My husband and I have a dear friend who sees things much differently than we do politically. He is an amazing man and one we are proud to call 'friend'. I agreed a long time ago to agree to disagree and avoid the topic with him. Every once in a while he'll get drunk and bring it up and ramble on and on and on hoping I'll change my mind. It's been many years and I haven't changed my mind and tell him it is a topic we just can't discuss. I'm hoping one day he'll stop bringing it up. LOL

a reply to: Metallicus

Sounds like wishy-washy socialism through the back door. What next? We all have a pillow fight and promise to be friends forever?! We fought against Communism right? Remind me who won...

Just joking...it's great when a member who's our polar opposite makes a thoughtful post. It's like someone yanks up the hand-brake of our assumptions and brings us screeching to a halt.