But, I must accept that they have just as much right to exist on this planet as me. I've had to do that in order to stay at peace with the world, or it will drive me nuts. If I allow their flaws to rent space in my head, I'll just die a bitter, hateful old man - and no better a person than them.
They are the ones that must live with and deal with the consequences of those flaws, not me.
For me, the word "accept" means "to be at peace with". It does not mean I have to buy into their crap or agree to it. For example, I accept that my neighbor is a Libertarian and that I cannot change that. And, I may need to work closely with him to cut down a tree or fix a car.
I had to learn many years ago that I can't change other people, as much as I would would like to at times. What I can do however, is try to set a good example for others as best I can, and try to get along with everyone.
Another point here is that nobody has appointed me "labeler in chief" to assign character flaw labels to other folks. Have you been given that authority? Would you be willing to attach that label to that person's coat? Conversely, would you appreciate someone sticking one to you?
Keep in mind that labels can be very destructive in themselves and they tend to be hard, or impossible to remove. Any poor young woman that's been unjustly labeled a whore will tell you that in no uncertain terms, as will anyone labeled as retarded.
Republicans have managed to rent enormous space in American's brains - sowing hatred and division - and we must shut it down.
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