Notable Quotable: Thomas Jefferson on Friendship
No one is completely wrong all of the time. Nor is anyone entirely correct all of the time. Can anyone actually discern the whole truth and nothing but the truth anymore, even if through a court of law?
Wherever power is at stake or up for grabs, and wherever people will settle the matter through their vote, the battle for hearts and minds will proceed with full force. Truth is not part of that process—it never has been. Elections are entertainment and sport with winners and losers, despite the serious potential of life-changing outcomes.
So, if someone close to you has different views than you as to who will best run the country, they’re simply exercising their right to follow a different spin on what’s just or not. We must give them that freedom of choice without harsh judgment. A peaceful democracy requires it. Like the rest of us, they need life to get better and believe they’ve found the way—right or wrong, real or fake.
Ultimately, if we continue to mourn the choice they’ve made, and they lament ours, we tragically lose each other for the wrong reasons. That is the truth we must all remember and come to terms with.
Slipstream
Apparently Jefferson went through similar times or he wouldn't have written this thought. It's perfect timing to see now since the current times are so very challenging. Thanks!
youtropolis
History has so much to teach us. It's comforting to know that those who came before us were truly no different than we are. The difficulties that trouble us today, troubled them during their day, and their wisdom gives a short cut through our own troubles. It's a gift we can use, especially at this crucial time in history.
Thank you for your comment.
Well Street
I have people in my life who would do well to accept the wisdom of Jefferson's message.
Thank you for sharing.
youtropolis
Yes, it's likely we all do, and need to put it to use ourselves. Thank you for your comment.
Wonderland
I read this message a few days ago. It has stayed with me. I continue to think about it, and gratefully accept the wisdom of Thomas Jefferson and whoever posted this on this site.
youtropolis
Thank you. We are grateful for your kind remark and appreciate your thoughtfulness. The people of this country would be in a better place and happier if more of us took time to think on such things and weigh them in our hearts.
Wilsons Grave
True. We don't get mad at our friends when they rooted for the other football team and they won. Heck, we weren't on the playing field nor were they. So why get your liver in a boil? Same thing in politics. I grew up with folks who said talk nothing about politics or religion––go to church and do your civic duty, but no one else needs to know what that boils down to for you. Everyone used to follow that rule, now everyone is on social media mouthing off as if they were experts on everything from the deep state to alien conspiracies to what meds are gonna kill you. What I know for sure is we've lost interest in the truth if we think we already know it all.