This is one reason that I really enjoy my Optimist Club; political views are left outside of the meeting. Not so much that we have our heads in the sand in regards to current events, but we find if we are all working towards positive solutions, we don't have to necessarily agree on what causes society's problems.
After all, no one thing contributes to any success, failure or shortcoming; however, the unity of many diverse experiences increases our chances to overcome any challenge. We are stronger because we share many voices, attitudes, personalities, strengths and even weaknesses and as an Optimist Club, it is our responsibility to find, promote and live for the most positive solutions. That's what community building is all about whether the community is online, in a club, organization, neighborhood, city, state or country.
Others will try to detract. Others will spread negativity and even fear. I believe that when we stand together in optimism, we will find the faith to expect only the best in all people and bring out the best in ourselves.
This post was inspired by the events memorializing 9/11 and the belief that we must be very cautious lest our fear turn into hate. I believe that as a nation, we are better than that.