I’m not sure if it was from being out of the country for 15 years or just getting old, but when we returned to the States in 2002, I found talk radio to be disgusting. Not all of it; I like Dr. Dean Edell, Dave Ramsey, Bruce Williams and most of the sports shows. It’s the “I’m right and everyone else is an idiot” guys that blew me away. Suddenly abuse was the order of the day. The only way to be seen as truly believing in one’s ideas was to belittle opponents, accusing them of mental and moral deficiency. Anyone who disagreed was a dishonest, idiotic coward who just didn’t get it.

Somehow, that same tone invaded many religious discussions. Maybe it’s always been that way. But I sure notice it a lot more these days. When I’ve pointed this out at times, I’ve been reminded that “there is only one truth,” so there is no reason to be respectful to those that disagree. [Just so you’ll know I’m not just picking on “us,” I experienced the same in a non-Church of Christ forum when I defended the belief that baptism is part of the salvation process.]

Is it possible to have strong convictions, yet express one’s opinion humbly and respectfully? Can I truly believe that I’m right, yet allow for the outside possibility that I’m wrong?

I’m very much open to suggestions as to how to express disagreement in the proper way, how to share strong convictions in a non-offensive way. Let’s hear what you have to say.