The answer is fear. 
We live in a climate of fear in our nation. Every time we turn on the news, we see the worst playing out in front of us. Political division. Violent protests. Terrorism. Not only that, social media and other public forums are becoming an increasingly toxic place in which to attempt to address these issues. Though some voices are calling us to accept  and understand one another, they are often drowned out by self-appointed judges who punish those who dare to express a different opinion with verbal attacks and ridicule. Fear of being targeted by these firing squads causes many to withdraw from speaking their minds when it comes to controversial issues, even if their input is valid and inspiring. The worst isn’t just coming out in our “macro” social problems; it’s coming out every day in our conversations—and it’s all driven by fear.

More than ever, we need to grow in relational intelligence—to develop the attitudes and behaviours that create a safe place for people to be themselves and connect with one another. The central truth of relational intelligence is this:
Fear drives us away from people.  Love drives us toward people. Continue reading “What brings out the worst in human beings?”