What unites us?

Are we more alike than different?

I was sitting in the dentist’s chair having my teeth cleaned when a political ad popped up on the TV. The hygienist grumbled, “Another political ad and we still have six months to go.” I replied, “We may not all agree on politics but we can all agree that we dislike political ads. Maybe that’s something that can unite us.” She laughed and agreed.

That got me thinking. It’s no secret that our nation is divided politically. We’re experiencing a “you’re either with us or against us” mentality. But when you stop to think about it, there actually are many things that most of us agree on. Here are some examples:

• Ice cream is a perfect summer treat.

• Generally speaking, junk food tastes better than healthy food. And that seems unfair.

• Opening the windows on the first warm spring day is energizing.

• Puppies and kittens are incredibly cute.

• Arguing brings forth uncomfortable emotions.

• It’s easy to waste time scrolling on our phones.

• Being appreciated and acknowledged feels good.

• Learning something new is invigorating.

• Checking off items on a to do list is satisfying.

• Leaf blowers and vacuums are too noisy.

• Clean sheets are one of life’s little luxuries.

• Sunsets are miraculous.

• Pausing to think before you speak is a good idea.

• Birthdays are more fun when you’re young.

• New Year’s resolutions usually don’t last but we continue to make them anyway.

• The older we get, the less we care what others think of us.

• We’re happier when we get enough sleep.

• A baby’s laugh is contagious.

• Fresh flowers in the house make the day feel special.

It’s comforting to know we’re probably more alike than different. Perhaps we should think of our nation as one big giant “us” again instead of the left and the right, or the right and the wrong. Or maybe those we should be against are the marketers who are determined to divide us.

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