Connecting

I find it nearly impossible - even with my best intentions - to understand why anyone would support Bush. And I share this with many in the US and internationally. On the other hand, many Bush supporters apparently find it almost impossible to understand those who are opposed to him.

I wish I could understand more. We all have the same basic human needs, although we choose different strategies to meet them, so there must be areas where we can connect, communicate and understand each other (although we would still disagree).

Unfortunately, the communication is far too often characterized by slogans, simplified statements, superficial explanations. We are not used to go below the particular strategies to the needs level: to identify and talk about which deep, human needs we are trying to meet by adopting a particular strategy.

We perceive this as opening up too much, becoming vulnerable - especially in a situation where heated (superficial) exchange is the norm. But if we have a container where we could feel safe, we may be able to do just this. Maybe a few brave souls from both sides to take this on, understand each other on a deep level, and communicate that back to their sides?

Of course, not that many may be interested in listening, but it may still have an effect - especially among those on both sides who are interested in truly connecting on a human level.