It’s no secret: there’s a deep division eroding America. It has been building up for some time, but our current elections are exposing the “you are either with us or against us” attitude that is ruining our country.
In an effort to soften hearts and build bridges, I wrote this list. It’s purely opinion, peppered with cherry-picked support, but I stand by my thoughts.
- Get your news from multiple sources.
Learning to get the news from multiple sources can help you learn how to evaluate the reliability of the information. On top of that, if you choose from a variety of voices, you will learn how to appreciate diverse perspectives and likely be more eloquent and informed when discussing issues with friends and family.
- Take continuing education courses.
We should never stop learning. A healthy mind leads to a healthy heart. Many universities offer online continuing education courses, and they are often free. I suggest taking classes in subject areas you might have struggled with in high school–I recommend math and science–as well an occasional topic that interests you just for fun.
- Visit the nation’s capital.
We have a lot of amazing cities in the United States, but everyone should visit Washington, D.C. at least once. Take a week to see the monuments, but also spend some time in the different museums. It will change your life and help you appreciate our history.
- Attend a country fair.
I just threw this in because fairs are fun. A country fair, however, is a must because it helps us celebrate the hard work that comes from small-town America–places that is often overlooked in our large cities. - Learn about diverse cultures and faiths.
I love studying human geography. When I learn about other people’s cultures and faith, I better appreciate the rich diversity our world offers. I also learn that we have so much in common that should bring us together more. - Read.
I wouldn’t be a good English teacher if I didn’t include this in my list. Reading literature, in particular, can lead to a better understanding of human nature which, in turn, can lead to more empathy towards others.
- Learn a new language.
Something interesting happened when I learned a second language; I understood my native language better. That, in turn, has helped me become a more confident communicator. - Volunteer.
Find a cause for which you are passionate and volunteer. It will help fix a small corner of your world. Imagine what we could accomplish if each one of us volunteered even just one more hour each month. - Travel to a foreign country.
I can’t think of anything else that can be so much fun while simultaneously pulling us out of our comfort zones. The more we travel, the more accepting we are of others. We could all use more world travel.
- Learn how to be an empathic listener.
We are in an age where it seems like we are all yelling at each other and nobody is listening to what anyone else is saying. Instead of waiting for your moment to respond, just listen. You might discover that you will hear something that could clear up some misunderstandings about an issue. Imagine that.
So, that’s my list. I could go on, but I would like to hear what you, my small collection of readers suggest. What is something you think every American adult should do to help heal our nation?
