How Do We Talk About Issues That Matter?

    What issues matter in our current society? It seems that people struggle to even agree on what these issues are. The reality is that these problems matter in the eyes of society when people care about resolving them. If no one engages in actively solving these dilemmas, or feels strongly enough to advocate for change, the need for change feels weaker. People may put it on the back burner- becoming a mere inconvenience in the minds of those unaffected. 

Talking about issues that matter has become more and more encouraged. Issues of inequality in the United States have been a popular topic among the current generation, which has led to many improvements, including the right to marry whoever you choose. Acceptance of the problems at hand is the first step towards resolution, but conversation must lead to advocacy, and eventually, significant change. In other words, talking about an issue is not the same as actively resolving it.  

Although it would be a stretch to say that each individual can single- handedly change governmental and societal structure, there is something that would significantly help. Engaging in relevant discourse in a positive way, speaking up when it comes to matters that are important to you, and reminding yourself that these issues can be resolved if enough people care. 

If you are passionate about a certain issue, you may feel strongly about the opposing side. However, they may very well feel the same way with you. Stressing the importance of something to someone who does not agree should not be an attack. Kindness is the key to getting people to see your point of view. When speaking about these relevant problems, one does not want to create a rift. Connection to others can be an opportunity to strengthen the advocacy behind the issues you find matter. The more people agree, the better efficacy for change there will be.