I Disagree with You. Often.

I like to argue. I've even argued about whether an argument is the same as a discussion. I like to argue so much that a friend and I have invented a hashtag just to cover the fact that I like to disagree for the sake of disagreeing.

I'm sure that to someone on the outside it would seem like I'm petty. That I like to rile people up to destroy their peace--or something heinous and thoroughly untasoni-like as that. Nothing could be further from the truth (maybe I'm petty, too? I need to reflect on that).

I like to argue because I am committed to truth and problem-solving. I have critical thinking skills, and I need to keep them sharp. I am open-minded, and I like to make my mind up. I like to learn, and I refuse to learn without processing. I like to analyze then synthesize. I like to talk it out and then DO IT (usually).

I don't engage in discussions about things where I've already made up my mind. And I don't engage in discussions with people whose opinions I simply want to change.  I just don't. I may give you my side in our "discussions," but I am always taking in what you said, weighing it, then measuring myself against it.

I will always state the opposite. You think we need more English in the service? But what about the people who don't speak any English? You want more Arabic in the service? But what about my daughter who needs the English? I'm not stating the opposite to get on your nerves! I'm really not! I want us to find solutions together. And I am more than willing to make concessions and compromises at the end of the discussion.

More than that, my actions will actually change as a result of my conversation with you--even if temporarily. My mind will be opened to new possibilities, and I will take the opportunity to grow as a person. You could, too... As long as you realize I'm not out to hurt you or get you or hammer my point of view in. I am out to change me.