How Do We Talk About Issues That Matter?

      Talking about issues that are seen as controversial can be very difficult; it is uncomfortable and can be quite scary when you want to get your point across, but you do not want to hurt anyone in the process. Because of this, a lot of people tend to avoid these conversations. I think that the first step to talking about issues that matter is acknowledging the fact that the conversations are going to be uncomfortable, and that is okay. We all have opinions and beliefs that may not make sense to the next person, so when we engage in dialogue with one another, things will be said that we won't agree on. Knowing how to handle those differences, is the next important step when it comes to talking about issues that matter. Listening and respecting different viewpoints can be hard, but it is so vital to our growth as a person. When you make a conscious effort to simply listen to the other side, you might find yourself having a belief change. 

     In the classroom, it is important to encourage discussions about issues that matter. I think that students may find it scary at first because it will pull them out of their comfort zones, but the more they practice it, the more comfortable they will become. Starting this in the classroom is great because they get to share their opinions in a space where they have an educated individual, their teacher, to moderate and ensure that everyone is heard. 

Kristian Pogue

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