Opinion: Civility is about honoring one’s humanity while holding our own

By Jeff Worrell

Disagreement gets a bad rap. Somewhere along the way, we began to treat it like a threat, something to avoid or battle. But what if the opposite is true? What if disagreement is exactly what strengthens our communities?

At a recent dinner, I sat across from someone whose views sharply differed from mine. The old instinct to retreat kicked in. But instead, I leaned in — with curiosity, not defensiveness. I asked questions. I listened. We found common ground and even shared a laugh and promised to get together again. That moment reminded me: Civility isn’t about watering down our beliefs. It’s about honoring someone else’s humanity while holding our own.

In today’s divided culture, choosing joy over judgment in our conversations can be transformative. Civility offers a path to deeper understanding, not just tolerance. It’s not easy. It’s not flashy. But it is very powerful.

If we each commit to finding joy in our disagreements, we create space for connection and growth. Let’s stop waiting for unity to be handed to us. Instead, let’s take control, set an example and build it, one conversation at a time. Be civil.