Choosing to assume the best of each other

Photo by LOGAN WEAVER | @LGNWVR on Unsplash

The political climate in America related to the former president’s indictment remains highly polarized, with opinions divided along party lines. While some view the indictment as a necessary step towards accountability, others view it as a politically motivated attack. The outcome of the indictment is uncertain, but here’s what I do know, whether you agree with the indictment or not, you’re likely assuming the worst of people holding the opposite perspective.

Assuming the worst of other people and their motives leads to various negative consequences. Here’s a short list:

1. Assuming the worst of someone can create tension and mistrust in a relationship. It can make it difficult to communicate effectively and lead to misunderstandings or worse.

2. When we assume the worst of someone, we may unconsciously look for evidence to support our belief. This can lead to confirmation bias, where we only see evidence that confirms our negative assumptions and ignore evidence that contradicts them.

3. Assuming the worst of someone can lead to negative emotions such as anger, frustration, and resentment. All of which can escalate into violence.

4. When we assume the worst of someone, we may treat them in a way that reinforces our negative beliefs. This can create a self-fulfilling prophecy where our negative assumptions become a reality.

5. Assuming the worst of someone can lead us to avoid interacting with or working with them, which may cause us to miss out on opportunities to find a middle ground.

Yes, our country is divided over the indictment of the former president. That can be true. But it is also true that assuming the worst of other people and their motives harms us and the country. We don’t know what will happen. But let’s see if we can let this process unfold with an open mind, trusting in our institutions, and assuming everyone wants what’s best for the health of our democracy. That’s a great first step and one that might get us talking to each other in ways that bring us together. That’s my hope, anyway.

Wishing you all health, happiness, and prosperity,

Mark