Social Civility...

As a Christ-follower I believe it is time to take a stand, to do what small part I can to begin to unite the divide in our country, right down to my own little community. I am an Independent, but have friends who are both Republicans and Democrats, who are also Christ followers. Yet I have seen such bitter, rude comments from both sides- attacks that have gotten down right personal, over political issues. I think it's time we stop hiding behind the anonymity of the internet and, as, Christ followers, step up and show those we disagree with the respect and love that our Lord does. The proper response to an inflamed situation could make all the difference in diffusing anger and hostility. Perhaps if we step up as Christ followers we might be able to enact change...
Note that I say Christ-followers rather than Christians, because in today's society many claim the title of Christian for political or societal expediency without the slightest clue what being a Christian means. An example: I heard a lady say that she was a Christian, but if you want to try and convince her that the narrow minded way of thinking that Jesus is the only way to heaven then move on. She believed that there are many paths to God. How do you explain to that mindset that the whole foundation of Christianity is the belief that Jesus, and his sacrifice of his life on the cross is the basis of our faith. No, to her Christianity is a religious designation, as it is to many others, rather than a way of life. So I designate, use "Christ followers", because  it's more specific, more accurate than "Christian".
So brothers and sisters, let's begin to make a difference. Let's fight anger and hostility with love and respect. Let's allow the pans of ignorance to be diffused by our humility. Let's begin to live together again. It no longer matters who you voted for, because we're now past that; what is important now is that we are all in this together. I like the analogy that it's like we're all on a plane together, and half the plane is hoping we crash while the other half hopes we don't. Bottom line is tho, if we crash we all die-both sides. What good does that do? Instead, let's work together to make the best of the situation, dispute what differences we may have, and in the end we may all may safely arrive at our future destination together.
Food for thought...