Living with Polarity

Growing up in South Africa, I initially felt safe without the barriers of high walls and electric fences. However, as circumstances shifted, many opted for gated communities, creating a rift between those who could afford security and those who could not. This led to a society divided by wealth, where some lived in fear as crime rates escalated.

The reality is, we may never achieve a society characterized by uniform values and ideals. Our differences—rooted in skin color, culture, and beliefs—are fundamental to our identities. Even the planet itself exhibits extremes, and while the equator may not be the best place due to its heat, the quest for comfort often drives us to seek like-minded individuals. But how do we connect with others when our perspectives diverge?

Convincing family members of alternate views can be challenging enough; engaging with the wider public can feel daunting. This often leads to distancing ourselves from those who disagree, widening the divide further. But does this approach truly address the issue, or does it exacerbate it?

A Shift in Perspective

For much of my life, I operated with a narrow viewpoint, shaped by the teachings I received. Challenging those beliefs seemed unnecessary, as we were conditioned to accept certain truths as absolute. When encountering differing opinions, it was easy to dismiss them as foolishness.

Over time, however, I recognized that life isn't strictly about black and white. I began to shift my beliefs, which unsettled some of those around me. It’s understandable; many individuals hold onto their convictions tightly, often passing them down through generations. Yet, as we gather experiences, we learn to form our own judgments. It’s essential to realize that one viewpoint isn't inherently superior to another; our perceptions shape our understanding of what is "better."

The pandemic has further intensified divisions. According to the Global Gender Gap Report 2021, Covid-19 has set back women's progress by an additional 36 years. The timeline for closing the gender gap has now ballooned from 99.5 years to a staggering 135.6 years.

Finding a Path Forward

So, how can we thrive in this polarized environment while positively impacting ourselves and others? Ideally, we would coexist with those who share our values. However, this approach often stifles true transformation. Problems demand solutions, but polarities require ongoing management.

What we can do is honor our differences and seek common ground. This understanding must be reciprocal; younger generations should strive to understand their elders, just as the older generations should attempt to connect with younger perspectives.

Critical thinking is vital; we must resist the urge to let social media dictate our views. Embracing diverse opinions can enrich our perspectives without threatening our own beliefs. By approaching discussions with an open mind, we can appreciate the value that everyone contributes.

Final Thoughts

We share more similarities than we often recognize, yet we frequently focus on our differences. It’s our collective responsibility to shift this viewpoint and see what unfolds.

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” — Mahatma Gandhi

This insightful TEDx talk by Jason Jay explores methods to maintain engaging conversations in a polarized world, offering valuable techniques for connection and understanding.

In this YouTube video, the discussion revolves around strategies to navigate life in a polarized world, highlighting the importance of empathy and coexistence.