On Veterans Day, we honor Americans who served alongside people with different backgrounds, beliefs, and political views. That example feels especially relevant at a time when our public life is marked by so much anger and distrust.
Healthy disagreement is part of a free society. Contempt makes it harder to solve problems, hear legitimate concerns, or maintain trust in our institutions. Respect does not require agreement, and accountability does not require dehumanizing the people with whom we disagree.
Each of us can help improve the tone of public life: listen carefully, verify before sharing, apply consistent standards to leaders across parties, and speak to others as fellow citizens rather than as opponents to be defeated.
Reconciliation is not quick, and it does not mean ignoring real differences. It begins with the daily choice to pair strong convictions with humility and respect.
Today, let’s honor those who served by caring for our country and the neighbors we share.
